Reproduction of antique model. Empire chair, circa 1810-1815. This chair is typical of the Empire period in its water lilies in the form of rolled lotus leaves punctuating the ends of the slightly curved cresting rail. Below, the splat is sculpted with Empire rosettes and a sheaf of bound laurels. Its generous dimensions give it strength while its studied forms give it its elegance. Empire Style This was the French style corresponding to the period between approximately 1800 and 1815 (although 1800 to 1802 were rather more Consulate). It has left us chairs in the antique style, but often with the incorporation of decorations inspired by ancient Egypt, the result of the studies by French scientists in the wake of Bonaparte’s expedition to Egypt.
