It is a style that not only heralded the military and political successes of Napoleon Bonaparte but also revived the architecture and decorations of the ancient Greek, Roman and Egyptian cultures. Traditional classical motifs were maintained; newly incorporated were the emperor's monogram and emblem, the bee, as well as other representations of imperial power. Fark and light mahogany replaced precious woods. Inlays and carving were scarce.

Also characterized by its massiveness and embellished looks, the Empire style was a statement about class, wealth, power and style in the Napoleonic era. Palm leaves, gold-leaf gilding and ormolu mounts, scrolled arms and heavy upholstery reflected the wealth and grandeur of Napoleon's reign.