10 Rare and Expensive Empire Style Furniture Pieces

Empire style furniture offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the 19th century. Known for its bold yet refined design, these pieces were once favored by royalty and aristocrats. Today, they are highly valued by collectors and those looking to add a touch of sophistication to their homes. If you are drawn to historic and meticulously crafted furniture, Empire style offers timeless pieces worth investing in. Let us dive into the world of the most desirable and costly items in this classic style.

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Empire-Style Console Tables

Empire-style console tables were produced primarily during the early 19th century, around the time of the Napoleonic era. These tables are known for their strong, classical lines, often featuring bold wood carvings and gilded accents. Typically made from mahogany or walnut, they include motifs such as eagle claws, laurel wreaths, and Roman columns. The value of these tables can range from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the quality, maker, and condition.

The appeal of Empire-style console tables comes from their combination of practicality and grandeur. They are often seen as statement pieces in entryways or formal living spaces. Collectors value them for the craftsmanship and the historical connection to the Empire period. Well-preserved examples with original finishes and carvings tend to fetch the highest prices at auctions and antique shops.

Empire-Style Chairs

Empire-style chairs, including armchairs and side chairs, were popularized during the reign of Napoleon Bonaparte. These chairs feature a robust design with intricate detailing, including animal feet, gilded wood, and ornamental medallions. The upholstery is often rich, using fabrics like velvet or leather, and is complemented by carved wood elements that reflect neoclassical themes. Prices for high-quality Empire chairs can range from $2,000 to $10,000, with certain exceptional pieces reaching higher values.

The distinct features of Empire chairs include straight backs, square arms, and fluted columns, making them a true representation of the style. These chairs are valued not only for their beauty but also for their durability and historical significance. Antique chairs crafted by renowned makers, such as Georges Jacob, can command premium prices. Their scarcity and intricate details are the main reasons for their high demand in the market.

Empire-Style Sofas

Empire-style sofas became popular in France and the rest of Europe during the early 1800s. They often have a low, wide frame with square or cylindrical arms, upholstered in luxurious materials like velvet or damask. The frame is usually made from dark woods such as mahogany, with ornamental details like gold leaf or metal inlays. The market value of these sofas ranges from $4,000 to $15,000, depending on the craftsmanship and condition.

The distinct design of Empire sofas incorporates bold lines and classical influences, with motifs like lion’s feet, acanthus leaves, and fluted columns. These sofas reflect the opulence of the Napoleonic era, making them highly desirable to collectors. Antique sofas in excellent condition, especially those created by famous cabinetmakers, are the most expensive. The rarity of these pieces and their historical importance contribute to their high value.

Empire-Style Bed Frames

Empire-style bed frames were crafted during the early 19th century, most commonly in France and Germany. These beds are large and imposing, often with carved wood posts and headboards featuring motifs from classical antiquity. Rich materials such as mahogany, walnut, and satinwood are frequently used, along with gold or bronze accents. An Empire-style bed frame can range from $6,000 to $20,000, depending on size, quality, and condition.

These beds are designed to be the centerpiece of a bedroom, offering both function and style. The strong, clean lines and decorative carvings reflect the neoclassical influences of the Empire period. High-end pieces, especially those made by prominent makers, are the most expensive. Their ability to evoke a sense of grandeur and luxury makes them sought-after by collectors and decorators alike.

Empire-Style Desks

Empire-style desks were produced during the early 19th century, particularly in France, and are known for their large, commanding presence. They often feature fluted columns, brass ormolu mounts, and dark wood finishes, such as mahogany. The desks are typically large, with ample workspace and multiple drawers for storage. Prices for these desks typically range from $4,000 to $15,000, with highly detailed or historically significant examples fetching higher amounts.

The design of Empire desks emphasizes symmetry and order, reflecting the neoclassical style of the time. The inclusion of decorative elements such as eagle motifs and classical figures adds to their aesthetic value. Antique desks in good condition, especially those crafted by renowned cabinetmakers, can command top prices. These desks are often considered both a functional piece of furniture and a statement of status.

Empire-Style Commode (Chests of Drawers)

The Empire-style commode was popular during the early 19th century, and it is distinguished by its bold, classical design and use of luxurious materials. These chests often feature wood such as mahogany or ebony, along with intricate carvings of Roman-inspired motifs. Bronze hardware and gilded accents are also common features. A well-crafted Empire commode can range in price from $6,000 to $18,000, depending on the quality and condition of the piece.

Empire commodes are designed to be both functional and ornamental, providing ample storage while making a striking statement. They often feature symmetrical drawer layouts and decorative feet, with motifs such as griffins or lion’s paws. The rarity of these pieces and the skill required to create them make them highly desirable. The combination of design and craftsmanship elevates the value of these stunning pieces of furniture.

Empire-Style Sideboards

Empire-style sideboards, or buffets, were typically made during the early 1800s and are known for their bold presence and neoclassical design. They feature rich wood finishes, often in mahogany or walnut, and are adorned with bronze or brass mounts. These pieces often have large drawers and cabinets for storing tableware and linens. The price range for these sideboards can vary from $5,000 to $15,000, with well-preserved examples commanding premium prices.

These sideboards combine form and function, offering ample storage while enhancing the room’s aesthetic. Their detailed carvings and bronze hardware add to their visual appeal. Collectors and antique enthusiasts value Empire-style sideboards for their historical significance and intricate design. The more detailed and well-preserved the piece, the higher its market value.

Empire-Style Dining Tables

Empire-style dining tables were designed to make a statement in formal dining rooms, often during the Napoleonic era. They feature large, sturdy legs, typically made of dark wood, with decorative motifs like laurel wreaths or acanthus leaves. The tables are often expandable, allowing for large gatherings, and feature intricate carvings along the edges. These tables range in price from $8,000 to $25,000, with rare or custom-made examples being particularly valuable.

The design of Empire dining tables emphasizes symmetry and strength, with bold lines that reflect the influence of classical architecture. The tables were made for large, formal dining settings, often used by the wealthy and aristocratic families of the time. Pieces in excellent condition with original finishes can command the highest prices at auctions. The historical significance and craftsmanship of these tables make them highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

Empire-Style Mirrors

Empire-style mirrors are known for their opulent frames and neoclassical design. These mirrors were typically crafted from rich woods such as mahogany or walnut, with gold leaf or bronze accents around the frame. Common features include carved motifs like eagles, urns, and other classical figures. Depending on the quality and condition, Empire mirrors can range from $4,000 to $15,000, with some highly detailed pieces fetching even more.

These mirrors were often used in grand hallways or as statement pieces in formal rooms, reflecting the wealth and status of the owner. The bold, symmetrical designs are a hallmark of the Empire style, making these mirrors stand out in any setting. Well-preserved mirrors with intact gilding and original features are particularly valuable. Antique mirrors from this period are highly collectible and sought after by interior designers and collectors alike.

Empire-Style Armoires

Empire-style armoires are large, ornate wardrobes that were crafted during the early 1800s, typically in France. These pieces are known for their commanding size and classic design, with rich wood finishes and detailed carvings. Often adorned with gilded bronze hardware and Roman-inspired motifs, these armoires are both functional and decorative. Prices for these armoires can range from $7,000 to $25,000, depending on the craftsmanship and condition of the piece.

The armoire design includes clean lines and decorative elements such as fluted columns or geometric patterns. They were used to store clothing and other valuable items, and their grandeur made them the centerpiece of many elegant homes. High-quality armoires crafted by renowned cabinetmakers tend to fetch the highest prices. The combination of their size, beauty, and utility makes them highly desirable to collectors of Empire furniture.

Empire-style furniture offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of history with unmatched elegance. Its bold design and rich craftsmanship make it highly sought after by collectors and interior enthusiasts.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.