Empire
Artistic style in the art of the first half of the 19th century
The Empire style originated in France during the era of Napoleon I. It is easily recognized by its monumentality, strict symmetry, and emphasized antique details: columns, laurel wreaths, motifs of military glory. Empire is luxurious, often using gilded bronze decoration on porcelain or silver. In interiors, Empire impressed with the combination of massive furniture and rich fabrics.
Objects in the Empire style are status-oriented and often ironically called "aristocrats" among decorative art.
Once at an auction, a copy in the Empire style was mistakenly taken for an authentic imperial-era piece: these styles so firmly entered European salons that sometimes even experts found themselves in amusing confusion.
In porcelain and silver, Empire means strict grandeur and elegance of details. This style is still chosen for ceremonial halls and collections.