Learn about the origins of the Empire style in art, its great features and its implication in Napoleonic legend.

E:The creators of the Empire style were... French architects Charles Percier and Pierre François Louis Fontaine. They designed the furniture and decor of the Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. They issued the "Palais maisons et autres edifices de Rome moderne" (1802, Paris) and "Residences des souverains" (1833, Paris) in which it concluded assumptions style. Empire was modeled on the architectural elements of Roman, Greek and Egyptian. For the style it was characteristic of symmetry, monumentality and excessive decorative combined with the severity of the architectural form. Fontainebleau Paris, Napoleon's Librairy, Fontainebleau Castle Paryż, Biblioteka Napoleona, Zamek Fontainebleau Hermitage, St Petersburg, Russia. Ermitaż, Sankt Petersburg, Rosja. P:Twórcami stylu empire byli francuscy architekci Charles Percier i Pierre Francois Louis Fontaine. To oni zaprojektowali meble i wystrój wnętrz cesarza Napoleona Bonaparte. Wydali oni również „Palaise maisons et autres edifices de Rome moderne” (1802, Paryż) oraz „Residences des souverains” (1833, Paryż), w których to zawarli założenia stylu. Empire wzorowało się na elementach architektury rzymskiej, greckiej i egipskiej. Dla stylu była charakterystyczna symetria, monumentalizm i nadmierna dekoracyjność w połączeniu z surowością formy architektonicznej. E:Paris, France.The upper part of the facade of La Madeleine sculpted by Henri Lemaire in 1833. P:Paryż, Francja. Górna część elewacji kościoła La Madeleine dłuta Henri Lemaire z 1833 roku. The E:Summer Palace, Saint Petersburg, Russia. P:Pałac Letni, Sankt Petersburg, Rosja. E:Library of the Château de Malmaison in Rueil-Malmaison. The library was fitted out in 1800 by Charles Percier and Pierre-François-Léonard Fontaine for Napoleon Bonaparte. P:Biblioteka Château de Malmaison à Rueil-Malmaison. Biblioteka została wyposażona w 1800 roku przez Charlesa Percier i Pierre-François-Léonard Fontaine dla Napoleona Bonaparte. P:Przykładem zastosowania stylu empire są wnętrza pałacowe Luwru, Wersalu, Rueil-Malmaison i Fontainebleau, kościół La Madeleine oraz łuk tryumfalny na Placu du Carrousel. E:Percier and Fontaine - Chateau de Malmaison, Library - 1800 P:Percier i Fontaine - Chateau de Malmaison, biblioteka – 1800 rok E:An example of the application of the Empire style inside the palace of the Louvre, Versailles, Rueil-Malmaison and Fontainebleau, the church of La Madeleine and the Arc de Triomphe on the Place du Carrousel. E:Royal Chapel, Fontainebleau. The summer home of Napoleon and Josephine, located south of Paris about one hour by train. P:Kaplica Królewska, Fontainebleau. Letnia rezydencja Napoleona i Józefiny, położony na południe od Paryża około godziny jazdy pociągiem.

E:The creators of the Empire style were... French architects Charles Percier and Pierre François Louis Fontaine. They designed the furniture and decor of the Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. They issued the "Palais maisons et autres edifices de Rome moderne" (1802, Paris) and "Residences des souverains" (1833, Paris) in which it concluded assumptions style. Empire was modeled on the architectural elements of Roman, Greek and Egyptian. For the style it was characteristic of symmetry, monumentality and excessive decorative combined with the severity of the architectural form. Fontainebleau Paris, Napoleon's Librairy, Fontainebleau Castle Paryż, Biblioteka Napoleona, Zamek Fontainebleau Hermitage, St Petersburg, Russia. Ermitaż, Sankt Petersburg, Rosja. P:Twórcami stylu empire byli francuscy architekci Charles Percier i Pierre Francois Louis Fontaine. To oni zaprojektowali meble i wystrój wnętrz cesarza Napoleona Bonaparte. Wydali oni również „Palaise maisons et autres edifices de Rome moderne” (1802, Paryż) oraz „Residences des souverains” (1833, Paryż), w których to zawarli założenia stylu. Empire wzorowało się na elementach architektury rzymskiej, greckiej i egipskiej. Dla stylu była charakterystyczna symetria, monumentalizm i nadmierna dekoracyjność w połączeniu z surowością formy architektonicznej. E:Paris, France.The upper part of the facade of La Madeleine sculpted by Henri Lemaire in 1833. P:Paryż, Francja. Górna część elewacji kościoła La Madeleine dłuta Henri Lemaire z 1833 roku. The E:Summer Palace, Saint Petersburg, Russia. P:Pałac Letni, Sankt Petersburg, Rosja. E:Library of the Château de Malmaison in Rueil-Malmaison. The library was fitted out in 1800 by Charles Percier and Pierre-François-Léonard Fontaine for Napoleon Bonaparte. P:Biblioteka Château de Malmaison à Rueil-Malmaison. Biblioteka została wyposażona w 1800 roku przez Charlesa Percier i Pierre-François-Léonard Fontaine dla Napoleona Bonaparte. P:Przykładem zastosowania stylu empire są wnętrza pałacowe Luwru, Wersalu, Rueil-Malmaison i Fontainebleau, kościół La Madeleine oraz łuk tryumfalny na Placu du Carrousel. E:Percier and Fontaine - Chateau de Malmaison, Library - 1800 P:Percier i Fontaine - Chateau de Malmaison, biblioteka – 1800 rok E:An example of the application of the Empire style inside the palace of the Louvre, Versailles, Rueil-Malmaison and Fontainebleau, the church of La Madeleine and the Arc de Triomphe on the Place du Carrousel. E:Royal Chapel, Fontainebleau. The summer home of Napoleon and Josephine, located south of Paris about one hour by train. P:Kaplica Królewska, Fontainebleau. Letnia rezydencja Napoleona i Józefiny, położony na południe od Paryża około godziny jazdy pociągiem.

Conservators from the Royal Danish Collections at Rosenborg and Amalienborg worked on the task of re-creating the colours of the interiors in Frederik VIII's

Narcissa Niblack Thorne, c. 1937

This post celebrates Biederdeier furniture which is made from what is referred to as blonde wood. There are several other "blondes" but this particular style is my favorite. Most often constructed along classical lines, it was usually made of light colored, less expensive woods like elm or fruitwoods, but ash, walnut, maple, birch, beech, and even mahogany examples exist. Black and gold paint was used for embellishment. After Napoleon's final defeat, Europe settled down to a long period of peace. The middle classes, who were prospering, wanted a simpler style, which could be functional as well as beautiful. This style, later known as 'Biedermeier', is essentially Empire furniture shorn of its ormolu mounts, excessive gilding and aggressive self-importance. As Biedermeier is not a traditional Anglo-Saxon style, it often appeals to people in creative professions such as advertising, decorating, and the music and film industries. Elton John furnished his whole house in London with blond Biedermeier furniture and a few Art Deco pieces. Another rock artist to appreciate the style was the late rock singer Freddie Mercury from the band Queen. Biedermeier's subtle appeal lies in its simplicity, which is so easily combined with both Art Deco and contemporary furniture, creating a relaxed mood and informal atmosphere, unlike the many antique styles, which demand a more formal setting. via google Blonde wood comes in several shades. This is a lighter shade of blonde. via tumblr I love to use Biedermeier with leopard accessories. via google via google Sofas from the Biedermeier style are usually very elegant. via google carlmooreantiques.com Black and gold paint are used frequently on Beidermeier furniture. via pinterest via tumblr Many of the chests were flanked by black columns. via google Gorgeous blonde wood. via google via google via pinterest Biedermeier pieces work well with Art Deco or more modern interiors. The many pieces of Biedermeier in Elton John's London home via google classicaladdiction.com www.lisafarmerdesigns.com I have a treasured piece of Biedermeier in my master bedroom. It has black columns on each side which aren't visible in this picture. via tumblr This wood is more of a strawberry blonde shade cdecor.com These chairs would look great with Art Deco. via pinterest via pinterest Some Biedermeier furniture was heavy and massive, with carvings. thomasjmacdonald.com At the same time many styles of Biedermeier chairs are delicate. carlmooreantiques.com This beautiful console is made from burl walnut. It has the classic black columns associated with Biedermeier. via trmblr The Lake Como home of Gianni Versace who also collected Biedermeier. These piece are darker blonde.

During my recent trip to Paris, I visited the Louvre where I collected plenty of interesting material for my History of Styles research. Particularly there were several great examples of Empire style interiors and furniture so in today's post I want to share the main characteristics of this style.

Second Empire: 1855-1885 Rococo Revival: 1845 – 1870 Following the defeat of Napoleon I in 1812, France remains unsettled. A series of governments, beginning with Louis XVI’s brother, n…

Neoclassical style dominated late eighteenth century European decoration. Two distinctive styles known as Empire and Regency emerged from neoclassicism. This particular blog post is dedicated to Empire design, with emphasis on creating French Empire style bedrooms. Pronounced "ahm PEER", this beautiful style was the signature look of Napoleon. Upon assuming the throne in 1804, France’s Emperor wanted a new look that reflected his military success and personal style so he began an ambitious art and design program that resulted in clean lines and bronze doré appliqué that suggested imperial grandeur. Since Napoleon was in the process of expanding the Empire through force, military accents figured heavily into the style of the day. I adore this particular style even though it is a bit masculine. I find it can be softened with the right fabrics and accessories yet it still gives a home a elegant dynastic appeal. Whether you want a period room or a more modern bedroom with a French Empire twist, I have gathered some images to show you how to create a bedroom from his fabulous era in French history. visitheworld.tumblr... It is fitting that we start off the post with pictures of the pinnacle of French Empire decor, the Empress Josephine's bedroom........ madaboutinteriors.blogspot.com ......as well as Napoleon’s bedroom at their Chateau de la Malmaison. Furniture in the French Empire style was generally rectangular and symmetrical, and bronze doré appliqué, burnished gold, and jewel-like inlay finishes became hallmarks of the new style. Also bedrooms were draped and swagged with luxurious fabric. Many time even suspended from the ceiling giving the French Empire bedroom the look of military grandeur. source unknown Napoleon liked the luxurious tents and wall hangings that were associated with the ancient Roman Empire. Tenting became a design element of the French Empire bedroom after Percier and Fontaine decorated Napoleon and Josephine's château, Malmaison. These bedrooms were designed to resemble the campaign tents of Napoleon's military victories. Here the homeowner has created a bedroom Napoleon would definitely have approved of! via pinterest In designing your own French Empire bedroom look for wallpaper, fabrics, etc, that feature Napoleon's imperial symbols. These included the bee, the letter N surrounded by a laurel wreath, stars, and the eagle. thatbohemiangirl.tu... Black lacquer coated wood was very popular as was the use of furs, especially leopard. royalartpalace.com In fact black was a very popular color of the day as it represented masculinity and military effect. scalaregia.blogspot... Empress Josephine had a love of nature and flowers as well as a preference for lighter materials and colors such as earth tones, poppy red, soft blue. However during Napoleon's reign the French Empire style took on a darker look and rooms became more formal. Bright royal reds, emeralds or olive green, royal purple, golds, and rich browns were the colors of the day. Lee Jofa thepeakofchic.blogspot.com www.houzz.com Satins, silks, brocades and jacquards, figured velvets, and fine wools were fabric preferences for the French Empire style bedroom. houseappeal.wordpress.com French Empire chandeliers have a stately and dignified presence.These chandeliers function in two parts. The top part is called the tent and the bottom is called the bag. These parts combine to give off a swooping distinct shape. thislovelyhome.com I love this French Empire style daybed and the regal gold and silver color palette. abbeville.com From the book "The Bedroom" By Diane Berger / Photography by Fritz von der Schulenburg Mahogany was the wood of choice but ebony, walnut, and tulipwood were also heavily used. Figures representing victory, swans, lions, wreaths, vines, acanthus leaves, Egyptian motifs and geometric shapes such as circles, squares, octagons and ovals were widely used. willowbrookpark.blo... Imperial symbols decorate the chair arms, curtains, carpets, and porcelain of most French Empire style bedrooms. You don't have to drench yourself in gilt but be prepared to use some even if sparingly. zsazsabellagio.blogspot.com You can create a softer version of the French Empire bedroom by using light weight cream fabric for the bed curtain. Even gauze will work. The trick is to find the right bed. Even a sleigh bed with the right curtain treatment will give you the desired look. And there is that little bit of gilt! thehomesitter.com Create a bed yourself by using head and foot boards from a French style bed. You can find similar pieces at antique and collectible malls. I saw one this past weekend while treasure hunting that I thought would make a great Empire style bed but have enough projects on my plate so I had to walk away. marinni.livejournal.com Artistic metalwork flourished in an outpouring of beautiful clocks. Look for pieces such as these. You can find less expensive ones, just keep this style of clock in mind while looking. www.1stdibs.com Also a French Empire style bedroom needs decorative accessories like these candelabra. If antiques aren't an option keep an eye out for affordable reproductions found at home decor stores. source unknown Another popular motif for your French Empire bedroom would be the Greek Key design. www.1stdibs.com source unknown via Pinterest Details featuring eagles, bees, Napoleon’s initials, and laurel wreathes took center sage on cabinetry and metalware during the Empire age. Look for pieces that have these embellishments. www.artnet.com Napoleon was captivated by Egypt during his campaign there (May 1795–October 1799). He made a study of monuments, temples and royal tombs and brought back to France exotic motifs that caused Egyptomania throughout the Empire. www.1stdibs.com French Neoclassical / Empire Style Settee In the French Empire bedroom Sphinxes and caryatids (female figures serving as supports) were prevalent on furniture. buffaloah.com Wouldn't this fabulous bed look stunning in a French Empire style bedroom. This antique is c1799, and on display in Musée de Louvre. Notice Empress Josephine's beloved swans. You could always stencil some classical motifs on your own creation. www.lisafarmerdesigns.com Here is an old desk I recently painted black, added a burled wood paint technique, gilt striping and stenciled motif. A bed would be lovely painted like this and hung with Empire style bed curtains. Make an inexpensive bed look like a million dollars and give it a special place in your French Empire bedroom. www.sfgallery55.com Black and gold paint in a Greek key design, lion pulls and luxurious bedding give an instant Empire feel to this bedroom. Add elegance and sophistication to your bedroom with old leather-bound books, gilded picture frames, trinket boxes and elegant, luxurious throw pillows. imageck.com villagetaways.com Your Empire style bedroom can take on a more feminine feel with the right fabrics. Feminine floral stripes in pink and green against a more masculine green stripe gives it a nice balance. Pretty French Empire style bedroom at Viscaya. This look could be duplicated with a plain sleigh bed and added gold leaf embellishments. Add beautiful bedding and a curtain of course! zena.centrum.cz Figures of fame and victory were echoed in the decorative arts during the Empire. Notice the stars and wreaths on the carpet as well as the brass embellishments on the bed. Also anything you can do to create a tent like feel will be perfect for your French Empire bedroom. Marc Boisseau Stroheim & Romann, Neoclassical print wallpaper and fabrics Tented beds fit with the concept of imperial dynasty and conquest, so of course they work well in a French Empire style bedroom. Great accessories and wallpaper designed in neoclassical style complete the look. www.jpmoser.com Here is an example of finding the right headboard and making your bed look like it would fit wonderfully in an Empire bedroom. Put a small, tailored loveseat at the foot and it gives you the feel of a rectangular empire bed. Lots of pillows for that luxe feel and you are ready to enjoy. elledecor.com Here a modern bed looks Empire chic with a cornice and curtain and classical accessories. The nailheads are the right accent to make the bedroom look as if it stepped out of the Empire period. Even if you don't have expensive artifacts, flea market antiques and brass accessories work perfectly for a French Empire theme. source unknown The ruffled curtain and pink color pallet gives this French Empire inspired bedroom a soft, feminine feel. Just don't get carried away. This style won't take kindly to an abundance of ruffles. Find pretty French chairs and any table with a brass pie crust top. What makes this softness work is the wallpaper with a design that resembles a wreath. www.overstock.com I realize the antique beds are out of many peoples price range. That shouldn't stop you from creating a beautiful Empire style bedroom. Get yourself a modern bed or head and foot board like these three examples and you are off to a great start. Pick up some French Empire style accessories in your treasure hunting and you will be good to go! www.onekingslane.com You might also enjoy a tour of Napoleon and Josephine's Chateau de Malmaison http://eyefordesignlfd.blogspot.com/2013/10/napoleon-and-josephines-chateau-de.html Click here to see the previous post http://eyefordesignlfd.blogspot.com/2015/07/decorating-with-red-toile.html This blog post was published by Lisa Farmer

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Beautiful "boiserie" decoration in polychrome ornaments, sculpted. The decoration is inspired by ancient Egypt and Rome, with Etruscan patterns. The set is composed of eight panels, ten mirrored panels, and four doors. Origin: Ancient Azzaro collection.

Conservators from the Royal Danish Collections at Rosenborg and Amalienborg worked on the task of re-creating the colours of the interiors in Frederik VIII's

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Second Empire: 1855-1885 Rococo Revival: 1845 – 1870 Following the defeat of Napoleon I in 1812, France remains unsettled. A series of governments, beginning with Louis XVI’s brother, n…

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A blog about Interior Design with focus on French style and other Old World aesthetics.

Conservators from the Royal Danish Collections at Rosenborg and Amalienborg worked on the task of re-creating the colours of the interiors in Frederik VIII's