A Journey Through French Design

French furniture represents the pinnacle of European decorative arts, a tradition spanning four centuries that produced some of the most beautiful and technically accomplished furniture ever made. Understanding the major periods is essential for any serious collector or designer working with antiques, and it is knowledge we draw upon daily in our sourcing work.

Louis XIII (1610-1643)

The Louis XIII period is characterised by robust, architectural furniture with strong geometric forms. Turned legs, heavy stretchers, and bold carving define the style. Materials are typically walnut and oak, with leather upholstery. These pieces have a masculine, substantial quality that works beautifully in country houses and traditional interiors. We source Louis XIII pieces primarily from provincial French dealers who specialise in early furniture.

Louis XIV (1643-1715)

The Sun King's reign produced furniture of unprecedented grandeur. The establishment of the Gobelins manufactory brought together the finest craftsmen in France, producing pieces of extraordinary quality and opulence. Marquetry, gilding, and the use of exotic materials such as tortoiseshell and brass (the technique known as Boulle work) reached their zenith. Louis XIV furniture is rare and commands significant prices, but we have sourced exceptional examples for clients who appreciate the period's unmatched ambition.

Régence (1715-1730)

The transitional Régence period bridges the formality of Louis XIV and the exuberance of Louis XV. Furniture begins to soften, with curves replacing straight lines and lighter proportions emerging. This is a fascinating period for collectors, as pieces often combine elements of both styles. We find Régence furniture particularly appealing for its elegance and relative rarity.

Louis XV (1730-1760)

The rococo masterpiece of French furniture design. Louis XV pieces are defined by flowing curves, cabriole legs, asymmetric ornamentation, and an extraordinary lightness of form. The period produced some of the greatest ébénistes (cabinet makers) in history, including Jean-François Oeben and Bernard van Risenburgh. We source Louis XV furniture extensively, as it remains one of the most sought-after periods among our international clients.

Louis XVI (1760-1789)

A return to classical order and symmetry, inspired by the archaeological discoveries at Pompeii and Herculaneum. Straight, fluted legs replace cabriole curves; garlands, ribbons, and neoclassical motifs replace rococo asymmetry. Louis XVI furniture has a refined elegance that makes it extraordinarily versatile in contemporary interiors. This is perhaps the period we source most frequently, as its clean lines and sophisticated proportions appeal to modern sensibilities.

Directoire and Empire (1789-1815)

The revolutionary and Napoleonic periods produced furniture of bold, architectural character. Egyptian motifs, military symbols, and classical references dominate. Materials include mahogany, bronze, and gilt. Empire furniture makes a powerful statement in any interior, and we have sourced magnificent examples for hospitality and residential projects alike.

Art Deco (1920-1940)

While not strictly antique by traditional definitions, French Art Deco furniture represents the last great flowering of French craftsmanship. Designers such as Jacques-Émile Ruhlmann, Jean Dunand, and Eileen Gray created pieces of extraordinary beauty using exotic materials and innovative techniques. Art Deco is increasingly popular among our clients, particularly for contemporary interiors that benefit from its bold geometry and luxurious materials.

Looking for a specific period or style? Our team can source authenticated pieces from any era of French furniture history. Contact us to discuss your requirements.