The Empire style emerged in France during the reign of Napoleon I and dominated the early 19th century, roughly between 1804 and 1830. It was developed as a visual language of imperial ambition—drawing heavily on classical Roman, Greek, and Egyptian motifs to convey strength, order, and timeless power.

The name “Empire” reflects not only the political period but also the design’s aspiration to align Napoleon’s rule with the grandeur of antiquity. This style marked the final phase of French Neoclassicism and spread rapidly across Europe, especially through court and official interiors.

Empire furniture is defined by its monumental symmetry, architectural forms, and use of noble materials—such as mahogany, gilt bronze (ormolu), and black marble. Decorative elements include laurel wreaths, eagles, sphinxes, acanthus leaves, and palmettes—each symbol carefully chosen to reinforce authority, legacy, and mythic continuity.

The leading designer of the Empire period was Charles Percier, who, alongside Pierre-François-Léonard Fontaine, formalized the style through interior designs and published pattern books that were widely influential.

In Sweden, the style is known as Karl Johan (after King Charles XIV John) and was adapted to local materials and tastes. Swedish Empire furniture maintains the clean geometry and regal motifs, but often in lighter woods with subtler decoration.