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.

Salon set

Group of matching furniture for a specific room. Also called a suite. Salon sets typically have a couch or love seat with a matching group of chairs meant for the parlor.

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.

Ormolu

French gilding technique of applying finely ground gold with a mercury amalgam to an object of bronze. High heat is applied in a kiln burning off the mercury and leaving behind the gold affixed to the bronze and is finished by hand-chasing. Also known as gilt-bronze or bronze doré. Often used to refer to bronze furniture mounts enhanced by gilding.