10 Most Sought-After and Expensive Rococo Furniture

Rococo furniture is synonymous with elegance, luxury, and intricate craftsmanship. Originating in France during the early 18th century, this style is characterized by ornate detailing, flowing curves, and elaborate carvings. Designed to showcase wealth and sophistication, Rococo furniture became a hallmark of aristocratic homes. Pieces from this period are still highly prized today for their beauty and craftsmanship. Many of these items are highly sought after by collectors worldwide, often fetching impressive prices at auctions. The rarity and historical significance of Rococo furniture contribute to its high market value.

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Rococo Armchair

The Rococo armchair is an iconic piece from the 18th century, known for its organic and flowing curves, which are a hallmark of the Rococo style. These armchairs typically feature a finely crafted wooden frame adorned with intricate carvings of flowers, scrolls, and acanthus leaves. The upholstery is often rich, with fabrics like silk, velvet, or brocade, which were common during the period. The arms of the chair are elegantly curved, complementing the cabriole legs, which taper into delicate feet.

These chairs were a luxurious addition to aristocratic homes, often placed in salons or boudoirs. Today, a well-preserved Rococo armchair can fetch anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on its condition, craftsmanship, and provenance. Highly ornate and well-maintained examples can exceed $15,000 at auction.

Rococo Bergère

A Rococo bergère is a highly decorative armchair designed for comfort and style. It typically features an upholstered seat and back with wooden arms that are carved with elaborate motifs such as flowers, shells, or vines. The frame is often gilded or painted, enhancing the luxurious appeal of the piece. The legs are cabriole style, featuring elegant curves that are characteristic of Rococo furniture.

These chairs were popular in the salons of the French nobility, offering a comfortable place for socializing or reading. Prices for a Rococo bergère range from $5,000 to $20,000, with particularly rare or well-preserved examples reaching higher figures. Exceptional pieces with original upholstery and craftsmanship can fetch over $25,000 at auction.

Rococo Commode

The Rococo commode is a small chest of drawers that often features decorative wood carvings, inlays, and sometimes marble countertops. The cabinet doors are typically embellished with detailed floral designs, and the legs are cabriole style, characteristic of Rococo furniture. The commode was often used to store fine clothing or household items and became a staple piece in Rococo homes.

Prices for a Rococo commode generally range from $10,000 to $50,000, depending on its condition and craftsmanship. The value increases if the commode retains its original marble top or brass mounts.

Rococo Mirror

The Rococo mirror is known for its opulent, gilded frame and ornate carvings. These mirrors were often hung above fireplaces or mantels and were designed to reflect the opulence of the room. The frame is typically asymmetrical, with swirling, flowing patterns, and intricate floral and leaf motifs. Some mirrors also feature porcelain elements or delicate carvings of figures or animals.

A Rococo mirror’s value can vary greatly, but prices typically range from $6,000 to $40,000, with rare, large mirrors or those with exceptional craftsmanship reaching over $50,000.

Rococo Settee

The Rococo settee is an elegant, small sofa designed for intimate seating arrangements. The frame is intricately carved with floral and shell motifs, often gilded or painted, and the upholstery is made from luxurious fabrics such as velvet or silk. The settee typically has a curved backrest and arms, with cabriole legs adding to its overall gracefulness.

Settees like this were commonly used in the parlors of the French aristocracy and remain highly coveted today. The price for a Rococo settee typically ranges from $8,000 to $25,000, with rarer, better-preserved examples fetching over $30,000.

Rococo Console Table

The Rococo console table is designed to sit against a wall and serves as a decorative piece. It is typically made from wood and adorned with intricate carvings and gilding. The table often features a marble top and has delicate, curving legs that add elegance to the overall design. The console table was often used for displaying vases or artwork.

A Rococo console table’s price ranges from $6,000 to $30,000, with larger tables or those in exceptional condition fetching higher prices.

Rococo Cabinet

Rococo cabinets are decorative storage pieces that often feature intricate wood carvings, inlays, and glass-fronted doors. They were used to store valuable items such as china, books, or personal objects. The cabinet’s frame is often embellished with floral or nature-inspired motifs, and the doors sometimes feature porcelain panels or mirrors.

The market value for a Rococo cabinet can range from $10,000 to $60,000, depending on the quality of the craftsmanship, materials, and its historical provenance.

Rococo Bed

A Rococo bed is characterized by its lavish frame, often featuring elaborate carvings and gilding. The headboard and footboard are typically high and ornately decorated with floral or leaf motifs. The bed frame is designed to be both comfortable and an ornamental centerpiece, reflecting the luxury of the owner. The use of fine fabrics such as silk or velvet for the bedding enhances its overall grandeur.

Rococo beds are highly prized, and a well-preserved example can be valued anywhere from $20,000 to $80,000. The market value increases if the bed is in exceptional condition and retains its original design and materials.

Rococo Chest of Drawers

The Rococo chest of drawers is a stunning example of the elegance and intricacy that defined the Rococo period. Typically made from fine hardwoods like oak or walnut, the chest features ornate carvings with flowing, curvaceous lines, often embellished with floral motifs, shells, and acanthus leaves. The drawers are often decorated with brass handles and intricate inlays, adding further detail to the already impressive design.

These chests were not only functional but also served as a display of wealth and refined taste in Rococo interiors. Today, the Rococo chest of drawers is highly sought after by collectors for its craftsmanship and historical significance. Well-preserved examples, particularly those with original hardware and marble tops, can command prices ranging from $10,000 to $50,000.

Rococo Revival Style Slipper Chair

The Rococo Revival style slipper chair is a reinterpretation of the classic Rococo designs from the 19th century, drawing inspiration from the original French Rococo period. These chairs typically feature a low, backless design, with gently sloping sides that invite relaxation. The frame is often made of carved wood, adorned with floral patterns, and finished with gilded or painted accents.

The Rococo Revival slipper chair was designed for more casual seating, often used in bedrooms or sitting rooms as a decorative yet functional piece. Depending on the quality of the woodwork, condition of the upholstery, and the originality of the design, prices for a Rococo Revival slipper chair can range from $3,000 to $15,000, with rarer or exceptionally well-preserved examples reaching even higher figures.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.