EMPIRE FURNITURE

Painted Empire Furniture

Admin — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 03:01:25 +0000

Beautiful Painted Empire Styled Chair

This chair is typical of the Empire period. circa 1810-1815. The color of the paint finish is a dark grey blue hue.

Beautiful Painted Empire Styled Chair

Of the same model as the previous chair, this armchair has all its qualities and generosity. It differs in its arm-rests, which very prettily continue the line of their curved supports, and are ornamented with a very fine sculpture of stylized lotus leaves

Beautiful Painted Empire Styled Chair

This pure Antique French Empire chair, with a powerful yet not heavy look, is typical for the taste of the early 19th century which is inspired by the Etruscan style and furthermore and mainly by the discoveries of Napoleon in the Egyptian expeditions. As you can see the pure white upholstery plays off the off gray painted finish. This chair offers us turned front legs with ornamented extremities in the shape of stylised lotus leaves. All Pictures were originally featured here.

How To Achieve A Venetian Plaster Finish

Admin — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:10:54 +0000

Empire Furniture Classical Interiors - Venetian Plaster Designer Brian McCarthy

Amazon.com Widgets

A detail of the Dining Room of Brian J. McCarthy showing a Georges Jacob chair against a Venetian plaster wall- Picture Featured on The Devoted Classicist Blog Originally Seen in the January-February, 2012 issue of VERANDA magazine.

Venetian plaster is a plastering technique which uses a fine delicate layer of of lime plaster, which is then polished to give a glossy appearance. This type of finish is known as Venetian Plaster, Marmorino, and Stucco Lustro Veneziano and has been used throughout history starting in Egyptian times. Venetian Plastering was used by the Romans, and during the renaissance for decorating palaces and villas.

The composition of Venetian polished plaster is that of Marble dust & lime, and occasionally quartz dust is added.

The industrial process of making Venetian polished plaster involves heating limestone in kilns, which is then emulsified with water. The mixture is then left to age for some years. The result is a lime putty which requires exposure to air to cure.

After aging is complete the putty is mixed with a variety of materials to add decorative effects, commonly marble dust or quartz is used, and pigments are added to produce plasters of different colors. Exposure to the air will cure the plaster over a number of months and a durable finish is the result. The durable nature of the venetian plaster finish makes it very versatile. It can be used externally or internally, and in spaces where a less durable finish would quickly wear out. Essentially limestone is turned into a putty which when exposed to air will harden back into a stone like finish

Recently polished plaster finishes have become popular and seen in particularly wealthy homes and office buildings. The finish has been used increasingly by leading architects & interior designers. Venetian Plaster can be suitable in almost all the rooms in the home: bathrooms, kitchens, hallways, lobbies, swimming pool walls & ceilings, wet rooms & columns.

Applications

Venetian plaster is applied with a trowel or spatula and then polished to produce a smooth surface which has an illusion of depth and translucence.

Professional decorative plasterers will charge a great deal to apply the finish for you, however its with effort & patience, you can apply this beautiful finish yourself.

What you will need

1 large trowel,1 medium trowel, and 1 small polishing trowel , spatula, primer, brush/roller, polished plaster mix. sealer, cloth, wax.

Preparing the surface for plastering

A primer needs to have a slight grit to ensure the plaster adheres to the surface. Apply your primer with a roller, and allow it to dry for about 8 hours. The primer must be dry before plaster application.

Plaster application & Polishing

1st coat: Apply first coat using the large trowel so that it covers the surface, do not apply too thickly, and leave a slight patterning in the plaster. Leave overnight to dry.

2nd coat: Using the medium trowel lightly sand 1st coat to smooth any really textured areas and then apply the 2nd coat by using small rotating motions with the trowel, working from one corner to the other, in a methodical fashion.

Use as little plaster as possible, just enough to create an even smooth finish. Leave 8 hours to dry.

3rd coat: apply as for 2nd coat, Use even less plaster than before as you will be working on a smoother surface, work your way evenly and methodically across the surface with the small trowel, applying the thinnest possible coat consistent with covering the surface completely.

As the plaster dries, using an acute angle with your trowel smooth and compress the plaster using a cutting motion, this will give it a polished even glassy shine. Leave 24 hours to dry.

Sealing

The plaster effect can left in its natural state if desired. It can however be sealed, if the application is in an area subject to humidity, such as a bathroom. Sealing is achieved by applying 2 thin coats of sealer , the 2nd coat can be applied 1 hour after the 1st. Leave for 24hours at which point its possible to also apply wax to give the plaster added shine and protection.

Additional Rooms By Brian J. McCarthy

Classical Interiors By Brian J. McCarthy Seen In Elle Decor

French Empire Mahogany Furniture

Admin — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 21:52:08 +0000

French Empire Period Mahogany Bergere Arm Chair w/ Ram Mounts, circa 1830-60

This elaborate French Empire Barrel Mahogany Bergere features glorious Ram Head Mounts and is believed to be dated between 1830-60. This chair is a beautiful work of art with incredible swirled mahogany veneers. The crest is decorated with a vase over acanthus leaves, swirls rising from the vase to culminate in a four petal flower, each flanking a round floral motif, the square exposed arms wrapping around the back to terminate in incredibly cast Ram Head brass mounts. The arms flank a broad and quite comfortable upholstered seat, back and arms, each with a "bee" decorated upholstery. Sloped arm supports complete the frame, resting into a straight straight apron with pierced anthemion mounts flanking a round patera. The knees are topped by round patera designs as well, each front leg being square and tapered, the rear legs square and softly back swept, all terminating in original brass casters. This is a gorgeous chair and an absolute work of art. In quite rare form with all original mounts, each cast with incredible detail, this is a wonderful find for the collector of French Empire. It is sturdy in all joints with a strength throughout capable of enduring several generations with your family. It is listed on ebay for $3,775.00

French Empire Style Marble Top Side Table

This French Empire Style Marble Top Table, is a stunning piece featuring a solid
marble top, rimmed with a pierced brass gallery over a solid mahogany base. A
round apron of mahogany is adorned with large brass mounts of a round floral
wreath flanked by anthemion designs, each corner topped with a five point star.
The top rests over three solid mahogany molded columns, topped by incredibly
well cast Caryatid solid brass figural mounts, terminating over detailed brass
feet. The center of the triangular base has a round wreath, and the entire
table rests over three solid mahogany bun feet. This is a gorgeous table, masterfully executed and an absolute eye catcher. It captures the French Empire period in every aspect of the design, and works flawlessly in any French inspired room. This is a must have for the decorator and collector alike. This table is listed for $2,075.00

Miniature Childrens Continental Empire Furniture

Admin — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 20:56:49 +0000

Miniature Childs Empire Ormolu Mounted Inlaid Mahogany Armchair

Tcs02186 on ebay has some outstanding examples of Empire Salesman samples worthy of any sophisticated private or museum collection.

This miniature child's continental Empire inlaid mahogany chair features shiny ormolu mounts, and beautiful lines. The chair is likely to be French in nature and dates to approximately 1860-80. They also have listed a miniature Empire commode with bronze mounts which look spectacular together. This set would make a spectacular gift to a grandchild or a unique family gift that can be handed down for many generations.

The chair is made of mahogany and the back and up-swept arms are inlaid with boxwood or satinwood string inlay. The back is decorated with an ebonized panel with an ormolu wreath in the center,flanked on each side by a reclining woman in the neoclassical style. The other is playing a lyre and holding a table. The end of each arm has an ormolu mount. The inside of each arm also has a similar ormolu mount. The seat of the chair has a removable rectangular upholstered cushion which sits firmly between the arms. Below the seat on the front of the chair is another ebonized panel, this one decorated with an ormolu urn. This piece is a fine example of the highest quality of craftsmanship.

Miniature Diminutive Mahogany Commode c. 1850

This miniature diminutive mahogany commode c. 1850 is made of solid mahogany with beautiful graining. The rectangular top sits above four rows of two short drawers each. The drawers each have their original mounted gilt bronze drop handles. The drawers are separated by a vertical piece of mahogany decorated with a scrolling gilt bronze mount. Flanking the drawers are two spectacular gilt and embonized bronze neoclassical figures in the Egyptian revival style. The commode stands on square tapering legs. The two front legs are decorated with small bronze mounts. The piece is extremely well made.

Eva Jeanbart-Lorenzotti’s Empire Decorated Home

Admin — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 19:23:42 +0000

Eva Jeanbart-Lorenzotti's Empire Decorated Home

Eva Jeanbart Lorenzotti founder of Vivre.com travels the world in search of artists that create beautiful home furnishings, clothing, jewelry, and gift items. Native of Switzerland, Lorenzotti set out 17 years ago for America, and since she has built a mini-empire, generating about $50 million a year by retailing luxury goods in catalogs and online. Lorenzotti started Vivre in 1996 as a thin mailer featuring just three brands. Just like any business, success comes with hard work and determination. She connects one of a kind treasures with unique buyers interested in rare objects. Today, Vivre's pages are filled with unique exotic wares from around globe. Lorenzotti is quite accomplished, but she isn't an over night success. Lorenzotti is a graduate of Columbia University and began her career as an investment banker at Lazard Freres, and is fluent in five languages.

Eva Jeanbart's home is as polished as the gems she finds, although it still remains hidden for the most part. Her closet has been featured in Domino magazine but the rest of her home hasn't been photographed. Habitually Chic Blog posted some wonderful pictures of her home which showcased her beautiful polished geometrical patterned floor. She was also photographed in Gotham's March 2008 issue, standing against an exquisite table. Jeanbart-Lorenzotti lives in Manhattan with her husband and their two children. For more reading check out Lonny Sept 2011's Interivew with Eva Jeanbart-Lorenzotti.

Eva Jeanbart-Lorenzotti's Empire Decorated Home Gotham Magazine

Eva Jeanbart-Lorenzotti's Empire Decorated Home

Polished Macassar Ebony Wood

Admin — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 19:52:02 +0000

Empire Furniture Ideas- Demilune Console Table with Macassar Ebony and Ivory Banding

Art Deco Demilune Console Table From Antiqueria Tribeca

Macassar Ebony Wood

Maccassar Ebony Maple Zebra Snare Drum From Falling In Between Ebay

Empire Furniture & Decorating Ideas Black Marble Floors Polished Wood

Black Ebony is an exotic species probably best known in it's use for musical instruments. Its amazing striped pattern of real blacks and dark chocolate browns is an irresistible draw for those who love wood. Ebony finishes to a beautiful sheen, with limited time and effort, making it very high end looking. This exotic wood is also known by the names Calamander Wood, and Variegated Ebony . The picture above shows an entire wall and door crafted out of Macassar Ebony, which is a striped Ebony.

Information on macassar ebony is relatively limited. It is an ebony from India and the East Indies and varies in the colour and has such a dramatic appearance. There are 100's of types of ebony worldwide, but most are only shrubs, and only one found of the species is found in North America called the persimmon tree, which is used in the manufacture of golf clubs. The trees today are rare to find c0mpared to many years ago, and are much smaller than the size 20 year ago.

I am so thankful for my brother who pointed me in the right direction with this wood!! Thank you K!

Macassar Ebony Klismos Style Chair By Hinson & Company Featured on Veranda

Macassar Ebony Klismos-Style Chair by Hinson & Company Featured on Veranda

Empire Furniture:Klismos Chairs

Admin — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 10:09:40 +0000

Empire Furniture & Decorating Ideas - Klismos Chairs - Designer David Kleinberg

I always enjoy a new picture featuring klismos chairs seen in this picture designed by David Kleinberg which perfectly captivates how shapely klismos chairs are. It is also really exciting to discover another designer who decorates in period style. Kleinberg tells New York Social Diary much of his inspiration is from France- Paris to be exact- "I’m so predictable. My favorite city is Paris. It’s painfully beautiful. It’s been my favorite city since I was 14. I shelved books in a public library for two years to afford a trip when I was 16. I remember walking through the Left Bank until I could get to the river and I literally wept. I’m a total Francophile. I love how impossibly difficult they are."

Set of Six Klismos Chairs

Antiqua Interiors is selling a set of 6 Biedermeier Klismos styled chairs in in a piano black lacquered finish. This set of 6 features the famous curved concave lacquered backs above an upholstered set supported by four squared tapered saber legs. These chairs have the sophistication of Bierdermeir style whole at the same time having a generous seat and inviting comfort. Antiqua Interiors is selling this set for just under $1,700

If you are inspired to see more of David Kleinberg's work check out his book Traditional Now: Interiors by David Kleinberg, which features more than 20 of the designer’s stunning projects.

See more of David Kleinberg’s Manhattan Apartment Seen in Architectural Digest.

David Kleinberg’s Manhattan Apartment Seen in Architectural Digest

Brilliant Floral Arrangements

Admin — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 23:15:54 +0000

Empire Decorating Ideas -Greystone estate in Beverly Hills

Jennifer for Peak of Chic has some wonderful pictures of the new opening of the Greystone estate in Beverly Hills, which she snapped during the opening of the Maison de Luxe Opening Night Gala Event. Timothy Corrigan's room stood out to be one of the most striking to me. Marisa for Stylebeat she took a close up of the terrific floral arrangement on the coffee table which seemed to be the highlight of the room.

Phalaenopsis w/Glass Vase

Uttermost Sun Star Watergarden Faux Florals

Empire Decorating Ideas -Greystone estate in Beverly Hills

Luciano Pitcher by Match Pewter

In a world dominated by mass production, Match pewter is handmade by artisans in Northern Italy. Its classic forms harmonize with both traditional and modern settings, recalling celebrations at well laid tables. Each piece bears a stamped symbol from the region in which it was made. Match Pewter Small Rimmed Vase

Painted Empire Furniture

Admin — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 03:49:39 +0000

Classical Empire Furniture Painted

This brightly painted blue chest goes to show how striking a chest can look painted. This chest features many beautiful carved details which are magnified with this rich blue paint. I don't think there could be another drawer pull that looks as amazing as the lion pull on this chest. The lion pulls look exceptionally large on this particular chest that they may not be drawer pulls but in fact door knockers. If you want a heavier hardware look, consider door knockers as some knockers actually resemble drawer pulls. If you consider painting a chest add some bright brass pulls to add contrast against the painted finish.

Neoclassical Furniture

Admin — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 02:58:56 +0000

Neoclassical Silver Leaf Swan Arm Chairs

Modernism Gallery has listed a wonderful pair of neoclassical silver leaf arm chairs that aren't pieces that you see every day. The arms of the chairs are carved swans with their wings extended to the top of the crest rail. The swans, chair back and front and rear saber legs give the chairs a comfortable stance. The blue wool upholstery and the silvered wood are in excellent condition. Modernism Gallery has them listed for $4900

Empire Decorating: Geometric Painted Flooring

Admin — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 02:55:58 +0000

Château de Groussay From The Peak Of Chic Blog

When I first saw this picture of the Château de Groussay featured On The Peak Of Chic Blog I thought this room was incredibly dated. I scrolled on forward to Jennifer's endless beautiful pictures, and found myself going back to the photo I just judged so harshly. I found myself mesmerized by the rooms amazing floors!! Stark white is often a color you see in Empire furniture, and it looks absolutely wonderful paired with white based fabrics that have a punch of color. Empire decorating is known for the really vibrant colors, which is often seen in upholstered Empire furniture.

This picture reminds me of the very sought after Biedermeier styled furniture that is based on the lighter woods such as blond woods and birch which were found around the Scandinavian areas. Biedermeier furniture stretched forth from Stockholm, Sweden and and encompassed Germany, Russia and the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

The floor in this photo would be absolutely stunning if it was combined with the lighter colored Biedermeier furniture. The floor combines the perfect combination of wood, and painted features that look much like the geometrical pattern that we so commonly find in Empire decorating.

Empire Decorating Painted Floors

Now if you look at this picture and the picture above of the Château de Groussay, you will see, they are almost identical. The grid of the white and black is much larger in the Château de Groussay compared to the pattern in this picture that was featured in Elle Decor. Both floors are amazing, but if I were to choose, I do think the added detail of the natural wood really adds to the overall look, and the overall width of the box pattern looks better larger.

Empire Decorating Ideas: Stunning Geometric Flooring From Simply Irresistible Designs Blog

Empire Decorating :Geometric Floor By Dean Barger Studios for Eric Cohler

Kay Douglass and Dixie Peeples' Wine Cellar

Kay Douglass and Dixie Peeples' Wine Cellar From Peak of Chic Blog

Geometric Painted Floors Seen on Million Dollar Decorators

Here you can see how a white floor can look terrific with a lighter accenting color. Here they used a gray and white, and less of a condensed pattern. You can see how beautifully highlighted the gilt furniture looks against white.

Geometric Painted Floors -Mary McDonald

Empire Decorating: Marble Bathtubs

Admin — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 02:14:28 +0000

Empire Decorating Ideas- Marble Bathtub From The Enchanted Home Blog

This picture has got to be one of the most striking I have seen in some time. The marble tub itself is a show stopper all on its own, but look how the marble floor picks up the beauty in the tub. The bold green wall colors work really well with the orange accent marble in the floor because the colors are opposite on the color wheel. THEN to top it off, what sort of colors would you add into a room with green walls, white marble floors with orange? A black gilt Regency/Empire chair really shows off a richness with the stark black paint against the white flooring. The yellow is again very typical of Empire decorating, and so is green. This designed room is very very rich, and uniquely decorated in an Empire design.

Marble Bathtub From The Enchanted Home Blog

Empire Decorating Ideas- Marble Bathtub From The Enchanted Home Blog

Neoclassical Architecture

Admin — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 02:06:41 +0000

Astor Courts, a 15,000 square foot estate in Rhinebeck, NY

Astor Courts, a 15,000 square foot estate in Rhinebeck, NY with very classical architectural lines. Some of the pictures remind me of Robert Adam's classic style and use of marble, classic columns, and marble tiled flooring. Picture Credits- ">Things That Inspire Blog

Empire Decorating: John Saladino’s Period Style

Admin — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 01:54:01 +0000

Designer John Saladino is best known for his period style decorating, and love for antiques. His passion for interesting antiques make his rooms feel interesting and rich than the typical designed room with modern accessories. The lovely Brooke wrote up an interesting post detailing his home that was featured in the Santa Barbara Design Style Magazine. As you can see his design style certainly isn't modern, and that's why we love him! Fellow Canadian Patricia Gray featured some beautiful shots of John Saladino's talent for creating and recognizing good architecture. He truly is a designer after the heart of the past. His rooms often feature fabrics and textures that are warm such as camel linens; beige leather, white cotton, olive green suede; dark reddish woods. He has made himself famous for his use of color and his use of a variety of textures. Saladino graduated from Notre Dame and the Yale School of Architecture, and later opened his design firm, Saladino Group Inc., in New York in 1972. His firm has grown into a "full service Architectural, Interior Design, and Landscape Design. Saladino has also designed furniture for companies like Dunbar, Bloomingdale's, Baker, Knapp, and Tubb's, and started his furniture line, Saladino Furniture Inc.

Above Pictures- John Saladino featured on Aesthetically Thinking Blog

John Saladino's Period Style

Neoclassical Decorating Ideas From John Saladino Featured on Niagara Novice Blog

Neoclassical Decorating Ideas- John Saladino - Niagara Novice Blog

Classical Decorating Designer John Saladino - Veranda Magazine

Empire Furniture and Decorating Ideas - John Saladino

I love this picture that was featured on Nicks Emblem Antiques Blog. You can see many classical elements, from the concrete columns to the nailhead trim on the doors.

Empire Furniture and Decor - Designer John Saladino - 1st Dibs

A review from John Saladino's book Villa was featured on 1st dibs. This stunning picture was featured on Mississippi Sisters Blog

Rustic Decorating Ideas - John Saladino via Cote de Texas

Arthur J. Pergament’s Neoclassical Home And Empire Furniture

Admin — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 01:24:14 +0000

Neoclassical Interiors Interior Designer Scott Snyder From Architectural Digest Magazine

Some of the most beautiful pictures featuring Empire furnishings are from Interior Designer Scott Snyder. With over 30 years of interior design, his attention to detail is incredible. You have to wonder how long an inlay (or stenciled?) floor would take such as the picture above. The collection of antique empire furnishings make this home incredibly prestigious and one of a kind. The combination of mahogany furniture, marble and gilt accents makes this home just beyond stunning. The blend of classic stylings such as the marble busts and the pedestals really propell this room and all Snyder's rooms to a new height. What makes Scott Snyder a bit different than most designers is his use of high end antiques and his ablilty to combine several elements together for a realistic period design.

Neoclassical Interiors Interior Designer Scott Snyder From Architectural Digest Magazine

Empire Sleigh Beds

Admin — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 00:43:56 +0000

Rare Period Federal Empire Mahogany Full Sleigh Bed w Massive Paw Feet c1830

Stantonsburg Antiques is selling a rare exquisite Empire Mahogany Full Sleigh Bed with Large carved Paw Feet. They mention that they often see twin sleigh beds from the late 19th century but rarely a period full sleigh bed from the early 19th century! This stunning bed measures a total height at the head-board of 51 1/2inches, height of the foot-board measures 23 inches,the height to the flat portion of the side rails measure 13 inches, The outside measurements of the bed are 55 1/2 inches wide by a total length of 91 inches,and the inside mattress area measures 52 inches wide by 70 1/2 inches long. This is a very heavy, well crafted bed that is very solid and tight and is just as pretty from the back as it is the front and would be fantastic placed in the center of a large bedroom allowing this early 19th century bed to be the focal point! This sleigh bed has wonderful sloped , graceful lines that allow this bed to resemble a real sleigh as it was designed after. The bed rests on four large carved paw feet each having acanthus leaf carved returns. This is a rare,unique find, and this period 1830's Mahogany Sleigh bed is ready to take its place in your home.

Empire Furniture From Stanley Weiss Collection

Admin — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 00:25:08 +0000

Neoclassical Tables, c. 1820 From The Stanley Weiss Collection

A dealer at one time was selling a large selection of Empire Furniture From the Stanley Weiss Collection on ebay and I managed to save some of my favorite pictures. The fabrics on the various settees were just incredible, along with the veneered furniture. This collection is certainly very desirable!

Classical Bureau Stenciling, c.1840 From The Stanley Weiss Collection

Classical Bow-front Chest Philadelphia, c.1830 From The StanleyWeiss Collection

Exhuberant Carved Mahogany Classical Sofa, c.1830 From The Stanley Weiss Collection

Classical Bow-front Chest Philadelphia, c.1830 From The Stanley Weiss Collection on Ebay

Carved Mahogany Classical Sofa, Phyfe School c.1810 The Stanley Weiss Collection

Classical Carved Bookcase on Stand, Baltimore, 1835 From The Stanley Weiss Collection

Gilt Stenciled Rosewood Piano, L. Whiting, NY, 1830 From The Stanley Weiss Collection on ebay

Carved Worktable, New York, c.1820 From The Stanley Weiss Collection

Classical Mahogany Card Table with Bird’s Eye Maple The Stanley Weiss Collection

Neoclassical Sofa Eaglets & Lyres c1830 From The Stanley Weiss Collection

Museum Empire Furniture

Admin — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 00:18:37 +0000

Empire Furniture

Unforths PhotoStream has a number of stunning Empire styled furniture that are just marvelous. These chairs are attributed to the workshop of John Finlay (1777 - 1851) and Hugh Finley (1781 - 1830?)Baltimore c. 1815 - 25 Maple with painted and gilded decoration

Center Table is Labeled by Anthony G. Quervelle (1789 - 1856) Philadelphia c. 1830 Mahogany, ash, pine, yellow poplar, marble, brass, and painted decoration.

Robert Fisher

Possibly by Robert Fisher (active 1824 - 37) New York City 1825 - 35 Ebonized mahogany, mahogany, mahogany veneer, gilding, bronzing, stamped brass ornaments, and glass (also pine, poplar, cherry)

Girandole Mirror

Girandole Mirror -New York City 1820 - 30 Gilded gesso, pine and glass

Directoire Style Furniture

Admin — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 23:43:55 +0000

French Directoire style executive Desk Sultane Antiques

Stunning Directoire Style Furniture

The Directoire Style took place during 1789-1804. The simplification of furniture begun under Louis XVI along with a taste for more streamlined pieces that had less ornamentation became more prevalent. Most of the furniture through this time was inspired by the Greek and Pompeian models. Lines are straight with crisp geometric forms. Surfaces are flat and corners are clean. Motifs were in the forms of squares, rectangles and palmettes. Common Directoire period furniture from this period were crafted out of elm, walnut, fruitwood or beech. Painted pieces were often found in gray, white, sea green and lime green, and the carved ornament was often painted in a contrasting color or different shades of the same color.

ANSEN EBONIZED MARBLETOP COMMODE Seller Sarlo

EBONIZED FRENCH EMPIRE MARBLE TOP CONSOLE MARBLE J5483 Ebay Seller urbanartifacts99

Antique French Directoire Style Canopy Bed From Old Plank

Antique French Directoire Style Settee By Old Pank

Look how beautiful the paint color is on this Settee sold by Old Plank

Empire Decorating

Admin — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 21:04:40 +0000

Period Empire Decorating - Picture Credit Charles Spada

This lovely picture by Charles Spada shows the beauty of laying with white. Here you see pecan stained hardwood floors, which coordinate perfectly with the ornate gilt picture frames with white mountings. You see a simple bench with animal print upholstery fabric which nicely brings in an Empire look. The simple hand drawn portraits give a primitive yet simplistic look that is easy on the eye. The gilt wall mount with a greek key design really makes this room look prestigous.

Period Style Decorating - Regency Empire By Tom Hayes

Tom Hayes also shows us the beauty of white and gold next to each other. Here we have gilt frames on the wall next to a Gilt Eagle Convex Sconce Mirror. This look is very sophisticated.

French Restoration Furniture

Admin — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 19:37:26 +0000

Antiques on Old Plank Road is selling an outstanding antique French Restauration 3 Drawer Commode. The 3 drawer chest features lovely black paw feet complete with exquisite lion's head pulls accompaning the three drawers and an elegant marble that sits on the top. The superb craftsmanship shines as you can see the expert inlay and applied brass trimmings. The French Restauration Period is a softer version of the Empire style which came into vogue in the early 19th century in France. While cabinetmakers continued to employ the strong geometrical patterns of the Empire period they also added a some amount of whimsy and fantasy in their designs. Musical instruments were carved into the legs of small tables and desks. Woods were lighter in both color and density and the art of marquetry returned with decorative flowers, garlands and rosettes, and detailing that highlighted the architecture and geometry of furniture. These styles are associated with the reigns of Louis XVIII and Charles X. At the beginning of the Restauration period, under Louis XVIII, furniture was designed still mostly in the Empire style with the difference that the symbols used during the reign of Napoleon I were no longer used for obvious reasons. Antiques on Old Plank Road has this commode priced at $19,800

Empire Decorating

Admin — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 03:45:07 +0000

Jiti sells some really interesting indoor/outdoor pillows in a greek design. The green and white patterned fabric is trimmed in yellow to give it a very regal look. These throw pillows work terrific with any classically decorated home in Empire style. The colors are really bright, which the Empire Style is known for. Upholster your sofas or accent chairs in a yellow, green, or white, and throw these pillows on to complete the look. The pattern is just stunning!

Empire Furniture & Decorating From Yves Saint Laurent The Elle Book of Decoration

Empire Furniture & Decorating: Russian Empire settee Seller Gerald Tomlin Antiques

French Chair Featured in Traditional Home Magazine

Classic Greek Furniture – Klismos Chair

Admin — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 02:52:44 +0000

Evergreen Antiques was selling an American 20th Century Neoclassical style painted Klismos armchair that featured a wonderful original painted finish. Evergreen's Klismos chair featured an amazing hoop back raised on carved scrolled wing supports above a wooden seat. The klismos chair is famous for its hoop back and sabre legs, and was originally created some time during the mid-fifth century. This ancient Greek chair was recognized from depictions on painted pottery and reliefs from ancient Greece. The klismos was again revived during the second, archaeological phase of European neoclassicism. Recently, in 2010, Restoration Hardware produced a line of outdoor furniture designed in the Klismos style. This style still looks to be some of the best designed chairs ever to be made.

Bertel Thorvaldsen Danish chairs Inspired by Klismos Chairs

Original Photo Found at Picture of Elegance Blog

Restoration Hardware - Klismos Collection

Classical Decorating - Greek Klismos Chair

Antique Framed Maps For An Empire Look

Admin — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 01:50:02 +0000

Several months ago I was wrote up a post discussing antique maps and how they correlate to classical style decorating. Antique maps lined up on the wall can present a wonderful classic look to your Empire styled home. While I was compiling pictures for the post, I couldn't find the original picture that inspired me. I came across some lovely designed rooms which took the concept, and applied it quite well, but that day I put together the post, I was disappointed because I couldn't find the best picture of them all. One day looking through Joni's archives at Cote De Texas, I found the long lost designer photo. It was credited to Suzanne Rheinstein and Joe Nye. The difference with their design, is they pushed the prints together creating what looked to be a wall of glass prints. I think it was absolutely wonderful to see one frame next to another for a very seamless look. I also found the prints to really suit the frame. The maps seemed to have an aged appeal, being that the paper had yellowed over time. The gold leaf frames really worked nicely with the prints. Finding vintage prints could be a problem, but having copy centers in most every mid size town, vintage and antique prints can be blown up to any size if you find a set that would work nicely on the wall. Consider working with maps that have aged backgrounds, such as the olive tones and yellowed backgrounds such as the one in the picture. It makes a tremendous difference compared to white. Below are some of the best poster frames in extra large sizes. My best bet is the one selling from Target. You get 2 frames at 18 dollars! At that price you can do your entire wall! Get this look for your Empire styled home.

Classical Decorating - Designer Ralph Lauren

Empire Furniture & Decorating - Using Antique Maps For Classical Decorating - Designers Rheinstein & Joe Nye

Empire and Classical Decorating Architectural Model Sculptures

Admin — Mon, 30 May 2011 04:41:49 +0000

A stunning picture was posted on Greet's Belgain Pearl Blog of an empire desk with coordinating empire chairs. Below in the picture you can see how lovely empire desks are. This particular desk was accented with gilt laurel ormolu like most empire desks are. Both the desk and the coordinating chairs are empire, although the picture doesn't show the chairs. What makes this picture quite interesting are the accessories. Period style accessories are sometimes as hard to find as the furniture themselves. The right dignified accessories can complete a classic looking home. The picture to the left is a model to which I do not know who the credit belongs to. As you can see the architectural model is very grand in scale and would make a prestigious statement in any room. The look itself is sort of impossible to find on a larger scale unless you turn to a grand birdhouse. Though if you do like that look, consider turning to the Arc de Triomphe Sculptural Table, sold by Design Toscano. The table is an architectural model of the Arc De Triomphe which sits 20 High, by 20 wide, and is 12.5" deep. It could make an excellent architectural model inside your front entry way or off by its own in your grand living room with a coordinating pedestal. Decorating with classic models is a way to incorporate the regal looks of the Empire Style.

Palladio Architectu ral Model, Wood Building Models

One of the nicer larger scale architectural models is the Palladio Architectural Model, inspired by Roman and Greek architecture Andrea Palladio. You would think it is as big as a toy box, because it has handles on the side of the box. The model measures 15.7 in long, x 11.2 inches wide x 12.4 inches tall. It is a lovely size and the detail is wonderful. Store your cigars or jewelry or important coins in it. Another wonderful choice is the Leaning Tower of Piza sold by Authentic Models. The model featured Bisque porcelain, unglazed in a pure white. The model is fired under extremely high temperatures, and the rough white texture on the model is loved by collectors worldwide. If you are interested in some decorative primitive decor, consider the running wood horse sculpture model, or the primitive wood mannequin. You can also get the same look of Authentic Model's wood Mannequin from Darice, who sells their model for 10 dollars. They also sell a magnetic one for $6 dollars, which can be stain it a color that matches your desk. Another fantastic choice is Noah's Ark. The measurements are 14" L x 5" W x 6" H. This is a handcrafted wooden accurate replica model. Take it out of the box and display it beside your desk, or on a bookshelf on it's own. You cannot beat the price, only $30 dollars!!! Handcrafted Model Ships have a number of model boats if you want to go in that direction.

Empire Furniture - Empire Desk

Lighthouse Model Steps Replica Model is the perfect choice for a desk ornament, as it hardly takes up any room. 4.2 x 7 x 24 inches

Arc de Triomphe Sculptural Model

Instead of using this model as a table, it would look just fantastic on a round table with books stacked amongst it. Showcase this model as a highlight in a library or on a small wall where it can get individual attention. To me, having it on the floor would almost be like dismissing it altogether. What a fantastic piece! You have to love how big it is!

Leaning Tower of Piza sold by Authentic Models

Small Scale Architectural Sculptures

Admin — Mon, 30 May 2011 04:41:28 +0000

The Architectural Wire Sculpture Doodles Destinations Series has a unique collection of architectural wire sculptures like the Golden Gate Bridge, The Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, The Space Needle, The Twin Towers, John Hancock Center, St Louis's Arch, Eiffel Tower in Paris, Leaning Tower of Pisa. This small collection of historical landmarks makes a great bookshelf collection along side your classic interior. Consider decorating with a 3D Puzzle models, which can give the same effect of small scale architectural models. They make perfect conversation with guests.

Architectural Wire Sculpture Doodles Destinations Series

Brian McCarthy’s Empire Style Home

Admin — Wed, 25 May 2011 03:23:40 +0000

Designer Brian McCarthy has been known for his partiality to French Empire furniture and European styled interiors. After working with Parish-Hadley for many years, he opened up his own firm in 1991, and since then has been featured in various publications including Elle Décor, Vogue, Life, New York Magazine's 100 Best and many others. New York Social Diary featured his home in their 2007 issue, where very high-end French Empire furniture was paired with contemporary art work, brighter colored walls typical of both modern and Empire interiors. Leopard carpets serve as a neutral in his home and and anchored together the two styles nicely. The Wall Street Journel covered McCarthy's style as one of the hottest new trends with the super wealthy. The article was very interesting siting that many high-end furnishings dealers are catching onto the trend and are re-grouping their museum furniture along side controversial contemporary art. For example, Kraemer's, an exclusive Paris gallery specializing in 18th-century French furniture, is remodeling its showroom to put its antiques in a contemporary setting, and it is working fabulously! Glossy white walls, over sized brightly painted abstract art and polished black floors seen in modern interiors are paired with ornate gilded 18th century furniture. Empire Style is known for their bright silks and brightly painted walls so brightly painted abstract art and streamlined pieces work extremely well. The two styles which have been featured on their own for years are now married together and the style is gaining momentum with the collector and the wealthy around the world.

Brian McCarthy New York Social Diary

"I do the same for my clients as I do for myself," Mr. McCarthy tells The Wall Street Journel "I see a room as a cocktail party. You want to put together a fun group of people, not just investment bankers."

"What makes French furniture of the 17th and 18th century so interesting is that it is sculpture," he says. "Furniture simply doesn't get any better. What I hunger for more than important pieces are interesting pieces which make a kind of talking point. Then you can start adding."

The Wall Street Journal mentions 18th century furniture started gaining popularitywhen Christie's auctioned items from the extensive collection of French furniture amassed by the Wildenstein family in 2005 and astoundingly raised £21.8 million, which happened to be the biggest furniture sale ever up to that point. Again in 2006, Christie's sale of furniture, featuring intricate marquetry and lacquer brought in £7 million. Then in 2007, The Bruni Tedeschi sale of antiques netted £12.7 million, three times above the estimate. It is no wonder that many collectors are showcasing the furniture in a modern way giving a brand new touch to this exquisite furniture. We are also seeing many interiors featuring a very simplistic design with a select few outstanding Empire pieces with white backgrounds much like you would see in a gallery or museum making the furniture the highlight of the room. See how Brian McCarthy decorates his home with Empire Furniture.....

A painted French Empire chair, paired with an Empire chair with carved lion heads on the armrests

Brian McCarthy Empire Styled Home Featured in New York Social Diary

Faux Finishes

Admin — Thu, 12 May 2011 03:40:11 +0000

Most people love to see "before" and "after" pictures, but what about "in-between" photos? Everyone loves great make-over pictures of a remodel, but rarely do we ever see pictures half way through a job which could give a reader a visual "how-to" guide. I stumbled upon Danielle Blue's Flicker Photostream, which included some wonderful pictures of remodels featuring faux painting. Painting, especially faux techniques can be tremendously complicated even for the average painter. Being a faux painter myself, I have developed my color combinations simply by experimenting. In one of the photos you can see they taped off a grid on top of a sanded wood floor which anyone with no experience could accomplish. Painting inside the lines is something anyone can do. The hardest part to creating a grid pattern, or any pattern for that matter is to get the overall measurements correct while taping. For my own floor in a rental I sanded down parquet floors, and taped off a pattern using the edges of the square parquet. Mine was relatively simple in that I already had the grid laid out for me. Putting some extra time in the taping and measuring will assure you a great finish. Another key element to creating this look is to have sanded floors which can be very laborious. For our floors we rented a belt floor sander from an equipment shop, and instead of painting, we stained the floors.

If you look at the detailed pictures of their floor photos, it looks as though they are simply painting on the pattern. If you do choose to paint on the pattern, I would suggest going with Coverstain, which can be tinted most any lighter colors. After working with so many different paint products, I highly suggest Cover Stain. The paint is an oil finish, but it dries to a flat finish. It is a primer, and sticks to everything. It is also really easy to sand once it is dry, (after 2 days), but dries to the touch after 1 hour. Then, you can add a polyurethane over top of the stenciling.

Cover Stain is wonderful for several more reasons. It is very easy to paint with, and evens out the paint strokes as it dries. I prefer oil, but every once in a while I try a new oil paint and it is impossible to work with, which can give oil paint such a bad reputation. In addition Cover Stain can be tinted a wide variety of colors. I buy my Coverstain at my local Ace Hardware because I need it tinted. If I want a darker color, I simply just add some additional oil paint if I cannot get the color tinted dark enough.

If you are anything like me, you are very particular with your patterns, and you may not find the perfect pattern online. If so, consider purchasing the Cutless Stencil Pen which allows you to cut your own stencils. Simply find the pattern you want and copy it on to a clear piece of plastic. In the past I have used overhead projector paper, which doesn't work so well unless it is quite thick. Self Adhesive Stencil Film might also work nicely, and may prevent the bleeding from the sides of the stencil on the floors. Traditional Stencil film also works. Again if these are not thick enough, consider a heavy weight overhead projector clear paper. Check out Valley Craftsmen for more faux finishing pictures.

Classical Empire Decorating - Faux Finishing By Valley Craftsmen

Empire Furniture Found In Sweden

Admin — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 07:58:51 +0000

The Empire style is often considered the second phase of Neoclassicism which flowed through Europe and America until around 1830. It gained footing outside these the major metropolitan centers well past the mid-nineteenth century. The style originated with the rule of Napoleon I, who was known as the First French Empire. The style corresponds to the Biedermeier style which was associated with King Carl XIV Johan who had strong German and Danish influences. Biedermeier styled furniture expanded to many different areas of Sweden and stretched to areas such as Vienna, Germany, Russia and the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Biedermeier furniture was not an individual movement in one area, but rather as a series of ideas that gained tremendous popularity that extended past regions and boundaries. (All pictures From Neoclassicism in the North: Swedish Furniture and Interiors 1770-1850)

It all started in Sweden when the Empire style first started to flourish in 1823 when Queen Desiree returned to Sweden after twelve years of being in Paris, and the prosperous middle-class families demanded quality, elegant, yet practical furniture at a reasonable price points. Desiree who was once the fiancée of Napoleon Bonaparte, and lived and breathed in the Empire style for many years, so it was no wonder the style took shape when she returned to Sweden after being in France for so many years.

Empire Furniture Found in Sweden - Neoclassicism in the North: Swedish Furniture and Interiors 1770-1850

Desiree Clary's life was an interesting one. We often think that monarchy enjoys the best of the best, but her life seemed to be sadly puzzling. Napoleon Bonaparte was once involved with Desiree Clary, but later became involved with Joséphine de Beauharnais whom he then married, and broke off his engagement with Désirée. Désirée then moved in with her sister Julie and her brother-in-law Joseph, who was the French ambassador to Rome. Designers of Empire design drew their inspiration from Classical Imperial Rome, so it was interesting that she danced around the Roman design which could have influenced her interest, which later saw its emergance in Sweden.

Her husband Jean Baptiste Jules Bernadotte married Desiree Clary and was elected to the throne in Sweden in 1810. Désirée became quite depressed when she found out that she was to leave Paris. When she arrived in Sweden for the first time and she really had a tough time. She must have felt so at home in France that she didn't entertain the idea of moving to a foreign country. She didn't comply to the demands of formal court etiquette, and the snobbery from the Queen and general court was too much for her to deal with. She never did learn the Swedish language, and kept her self quite distant in her new court. In addition, the harsh winters of Sweden were more than she could handle. She moved to Sweden in the middle of winter and shock of the cold weather left her endlessly crying.

She just didn't want to be there, and did not want to move from France. She dug her heels in with her stubbornness, or perhaps the realization of the sad reality of what she left in France. The Queen found her to be spoiled and described Desiree as "a French woman in every inch," who disliked and complained about everything which was not French. She missed her home in Paris so much that she simply returned to Paris, and stayed there for twelve years, even leaving her husband and her son behind, and disregarded that it was a difficult period time for Sweden as they were at war with France.

Her husband met her in Paris some time later, but again returned to Sweden without her as she didn't want to leave. She was ridiculed by the court of France, and felt hated in Sweden. After twelve years in France she returned to Sweden and it was then that the Empire style really took shape and became popular, mostly from Queen Desiree's love for France, and the neoclassical movement that surrounded her for many years. Perhaps she was bringing a bit of France (which she considered her her true home) to Sweden.

Neoclassicism in the North: Swedish Furniture and Interiors 1770-1850 features twenty houses and apartments elegantly furnished in the Swedish Neoclassical style.

From royal salons with exquisite Pompeian style to modest spatter-painted Biedermeier halls, the beautiful Neoclassical houses of Sweden are of interest to any person who closely follows Empire Furniture.

The text traces the evolution of the Neoclassical style in Sweden, placing it in its wider European context, and explores each of the buildings and its history. Plans, and original drawings are included in this book by the architects and designers.

This is one of my personal favorite books that can be found on Neoclassical furniture. It combines some really rich interiors, but also those with a unique Swedish twist, - white washed floors, plank wood walls, painted interiors, much like French but entirely Swedish. I know you will enjoy this variation of Empire furnishings. This is one of the best books I have personally owned.

Empire Furniture Found In Sweden- Neoclassicism in the North: Swedish Furniture and Interiors 1770-1850

Empire Decorating: Gilt Ormolu

Admin — Sun, 03 Apr 2011 03:33:39 +0000

New York Social Diary had a really interesting article in November 2010 with interior classical designer Darren Henault and his wonderful 19th-century Fifth Avenue mansion in New York. He tells New York Social Diary that he was once an account executive for an advertising agency, and it wasn't until a friends dad who was architect noticed he had an eye for design; “You know there’s so many things that you notice, and the way that you talk about things. You really should become an interior designer.” Although Henault thought the sheer idea of designing was the "dumbest suggestion" he had heard, the friend talked him into taking a class at FIT. Henault grew up in the textile industry and has a great interest in every aspect of its production—from weaving and dying to finishing he tells Decorati. Perhaps some time in the future we can look forward to some textiles from this incredible designer. All the pictures are from New York Diary.

Empire Furniture & Decorating- The drawing room was the former library of a nineteenth-century mansion.

Empire Furniture & Decorating - Former library of the mansion.

Empire Furniture and Decorating - A Jansen day bed floats in the Room

Empire Furniture and Decorating

Empire Furniture & Decorating - A collection of photography and other artwork