Napoleon III Bookcase, France 19th century

Step back in time with this captivating Napoleon III Bookcase from France, dating back to the 1850-60’s. Its charming design features a slightly curved front with two doors, boasting beautifully executed flower marquetry on the lower part and an elegant open wire mesh on the upper part. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the bookcase is adorned with walnut and maple, while the doors’ flower marquetry showcases the ebeniste’s skillful use of yew veneer.

In good original condition, this elegant bookcase also offers the option of professional refinishing with a shellac finish for an additional fee of 1,000 EUR.

Dimensions: Height: 48.43 in (123 cm), Width: 28.35 in (72 cm), Depth: 14.57 in (37 cm).

Napoleon III Style

Napoleon III furniture style, also known as the Second Empire style, emerged during the reign of Napoleon III in France from 1852 to 1870. This period marked a revival of the opulent and luxurious aesthetic of the French court, with an eclectic blend of historical influences and modern innovations.

Key characteristics of Napoleon III furniture style include:

1. Elegance and opulence: Furniture from this era is known for its lavish and ornate design. It features rich materials such as gilded wood, exotic woods, and luxurious fabrics like silk and velvet.
2. Historical influences: The style drew inspiration from various historical periods, including the Renaissance, Rococo, and Neoclassical, resulting in a mix of intricate detailing, curved lines, and decorative motifs.
3. Emphasis on craftsmanship: Skilled artisans crafted furniture with meticulous attention to detail, featuring intricate carvings, inlays, and marquetry, often showcasing naturalistic themes like flora and fauna.
4. Gilded accents: Gilding, the application of gold leaf or gold paint, was a prominent feature, adding a sense of grandeur and opulence to many pieces of furniture.
5. Eclecticism: The style embraced an eclectic mix of design elements, incorporating both historic and contemporary features, creating a distinctive and unique look.