Empire

A period of design during the reign of Napoleon I. It was most prevalent between 1800 and the late 1820s. It was considered the second wave of neoclassicism and marked a return to ostentatious design, a departure from the more conservative Directoire period that directly preceded it. It was intended to idealize the majesty of the French state and Napoleonic rule. Mahogany was the most popular wood during the period, and brass ornamentation and dark marbles were in vogue. Greek, Roman, and Egyptian motifs were also widely used. The style spread throughout Europe and appeared in America in some of Duncan Phyfe's work.

Guéridon

A small occasion table or pedestal with a circular top supported by one or more columns. Often ornate, guéridon tables have decorative work referencing mythological forms and antiquity. The form arose in 17th and early 18th Century France as a small table to hold candelabras, candlesticks, and vases.

Gallery

A gallery is the ornamental railing around the edge of a table or desk. These can be made from wood, or various metals.

Mahogany

Mahogany is a straight grained hard wood with silky texture, ranging in color from dark brown to red. Furniture made from mahogany became popular in Britain from Mid-18th Century on, spreading throughout Europe.

Stretcher

A stretchers is a stabilizing support rail which runs horizontally between furniture legs. These often form X, H, or Y shapes in conjunction with the outside rails.