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.

Caryatid

A Caryatid is an architectural column that is made in the form of a female figure. The caryatid originates from ancient Greek architecture and was popular during the Renaissance and Neoclassical periods. The most famous example of the caryatid is on the Erechtheum on the Acropolis of Athens. Caryatids are sometimes referred to as Korai which translates to “maidens”.

Lacquer

A resin-based varnish sometimes with pigments added that is applied to metal or wood to give a high-gloss finish. Mother-of-pearl, coral, and metals are often inlaid in the lacquer to create a decorative effect.

Chinoiserie

Chinoiserie is the European adaptation of Oriental designs. Chinoiserie can be dated back to the beginning of the 17th Century French, Rococo and Regency periods. The term chinoiserie comes from the word “chinois” which is French for “Chinese”. Common chinoiserie prints and motifs include foo dogs, pagodas, nature scenes, and dragons.

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.