18th Century Antiques

How to choose and authenticate an 18th century antique

Authenticating a piece of 18th century furniture begins with the ébéniste's stamp, struck beneath the top or on the back of a drawer. Between 1743 and 1791, the Parisian guild of menuisiers-ébénistes required every master to mark his work — a stamp from Oeben, Riesener or Leleu is a powerful guarantee of origin. Look also at the timbers: Saint-Domingue mahogany, tulipwood and kingwood were the prestige choices of the period, typically paired with geometric or floral marquetry and mercury-gilded bronze mounts of exceptional refinement. For stamped 18th century seating, examine the carving for consistency, the natural patina of the beech or walnut, and the age of the upholstery foundation.

Among 18th century decorative arts, porcelain and faience are identified by their factory marks on the base: the interlaced Ls of Sèvres, Meissen's crossed swords, or the initials of the Rouen and Strasbourg faïenceries. For bronzes and 18th century mantel clocks, the quality of the chasing and the depth of the fire-gilding — warm, matte and luminous — distinguish period pieces from the many 19th-century reproductions that closely imitate them. A documented provenance or a specialist's opinion remains the surest safeguard against confusion. To understand the stylistic evolution, it is worth exploring pieces from the 17th century that preceded this era, or the 19th century works that carried its traditions forward.

In terms of budget, prices range from a few hundred pounds or euros for a small decorative object — a tortoiseshell box, a period print, an everyday faience piece — to tens of thousands for a stamped masterpiece by a leading ébéniste or a first-rate clock. Condition is decisive: a well-executed period restoration is entirely acceptable, but extensive veneer replacements or recently repatinated bronzes will weigh on value. Always ask the dealer for a detailed condition report and, where possible, a provenance history.

On Antiquités en France, every 18th century antique is offered by a professional dealer who can provide high-resolution photographs, precise dimensions and, on request, a certificate of authenticity. Start browsing now and contact your chosen dealer directly with any questions.

Frequently asked questions about 18th Century Antiques

How do I recognise a genuinely 18th century piece of furniture?

Look for the ébéniste's guild stamp struck beneath the piece or on the back of a drawer. Check the quality of the mercury-gilded bronze mounts, the natural patina of the wood, and hand-cut dovetail joints. Slight irregularities in drawer fit and consistent wear on the feet are all positive signs of age.

What furniture styles are typical of 18th century France?

The century divides broadly between Louis XV — flowing curves, cabriole legs, floral marquetry — and Louis XVI, with its straight lines, fluted columns and return to classical antiquity. The Régence style bridges the two, while the Directoire period anticipates the Empire style that followed.

What should I expect to pay for an 18th century antique?

Small decorative objects and period prints typically start from £200–£800. A quality side chair or small commode might range from £1,500 to £8,000, while a stamped piece by a major ébéniste or a fine mantel clock can reach well into five or six figures at auction or through specialist dealers.

How should I care for 18th century furniture?

Avoid direct sunlight and sudden changes in humidity. Feed the wood with natural beeswax twice a year. Never attempt to restore marquetry, gilding or bronze mounts yourself — always entrust such work to a qualified conservator-restorer with experience in period furniture.

Can 18th century antiques be shipped internationally?

Yes. Most professional dealers arrange specialist art-transport packaging and shipping across Europe and beyond. For high-value pieces, request a condition report before dispatch and ensure the item is covered by specialist fine-art insurance during transit.

18th century furniture and decorative arts from professional antique dealers

Louis XV walnut stool, 18th century

Louis XVI Period Chest of Drawers

Crossbow-front Louis XV commode in walnut and wild cherry, 18th century

Pair of wine bottle coasters / coolers in painted tinplate

Wine glass cooler / rafraîchissoir in painted tinplate

Pair of Wine Glass Coolers, Rafraîchissoirs in Painted Tin

Bergère 18th Century I Gourdin

Small Louis XV oak armoire

DUTCH LOUIS XV CHEST OF DRAWERS - 18TH CENTURY -

Rare and spectacular Capodimonte porcelain ceremonial mirror

Oil on canvas – Genre scene, 18th century

Buffet in fruit wood, Louis XIII period

Buffet Louis XV in oak – 18th century

Louis XV cherry wood chest of drawers – 18th century

Louis XIV solid walnut armoire, richly moulded and inlaid – 18th century

Portrait of a Gentleman

Small medallion portrait of a young girl, 18th century pastel

Louis XV four-door armoire in walnut, circa 1750

Louis XV Tombeau Commode – 18th Century

Cylinder bureau in marquetry walnut – Louis XVI period, late 18th century

Bombe-fronted Louis XV walnut cabinet-commode-secrétaire, Franche-Comté region, circa 1750

Buffet bas Louis XV en noyer Low Louis XV walnut sideboard

Buffet de montagne XVIII

Louis XIV Gilt Oak Mirror, 18th Century

How to choose and authenticate an 18th century antique

Frequently asked questions about 18th Century Antiques