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The term \u201cEmpire\u201d in American Empire furniture refers to the style\u2019s origins and inspirations from the French Empire style, which was prominent during the reign of Napoleon Bonaparte (1804-1815). The French Empire style itself drew from classical Greek and Roman design elements, characterized by grandeur, opulence, and a sense of authority.<\/p>\n
When this style made its way to America in the early 19th century, American craftsmen adapted it to create their own version, now known as American Empire. This style flourished during a time of growing national pride and identity in the United States, roughly from 1815 to 1840. The name \u201cEmpire\u201d was retained to acknowledge its French influences and to evoke the sense of classical elegance and power that the style embodies.<\/p>\n