The term "Empire" in American Empire furniture refers to the style's origins and inspirations from the French Empire style, which was prominent during the reign of Napoleon Bonaparte (1804-1815). The French Empire style itself drew from classical Greek and Roman design elements, characterized by grandeur, opulence, and a sense of authority. When this style made … Continue reading Collecting American Empire Furniture: Tips and Insights
And it's a song you've heard before. I was watching a carpet on LiveAuctioneers and New Orleans Auction Galleries today and couldn't help notice the traditional/classical looking furniture wasn't bringing much. When you compare it to paper items like maps and samplers- the price per ounce would seem pretty unreal. Small items like curtain rods … Continue reading Furniture Sells for a Song
I've previously written on these pages about Pittsburgh sideboards known to have been made in Pittsburgh and some that could have been made in Pittsburgh. Just recently a reader sent in photos of another sideboard. The question of whether it originated in Pittsburgh may never be answered, but its one that's fun to ponder. What … Continue reading Tales from a Sideboard Sleuth
At some point, likely between 1831 and 1840, Andrew Jackson bought a sideboard for his home at The Hermitage outside of Nashville. While the sideboard remains in the same room he placed it, information about where it originated has been lost. The sideboard is featured on page 405 of the recent book Philadelphia Empire Furniture. … Continue reading Who Made Andrew Jackson’s Sideboard?
Urban Art & Antiques 