Louis Philippe Furniture Value & Price Guide

Louis Philippe furniture represents a transition toward comfort and understated elegance that emerged in 19th-century France. Characterized by clean lines, rounded corners, and the iconic 'doucine' molding, these pieces remain highly sought after for their ability to blend seamlessly with both traditional and modern interiors.

Price Range: $800 - $1,000 based on recent sales

History of Louis Philippe Furniture

The Louis Philippe style flourished during the reign of the 'Citizen King' from 1830 to 1848, reflecting the tastes of an ascending French bourgeoisie. Moving away from the rigid formality of the Empire style and the opulence of the Bourbon Restoration, this era prioritized functionality, domestic comfort, and mass-production techniques that made fine furniture more accessible. The style is often seen as a precursor to modern minimalism due to its lack of heavy ornamentation and focus on the natural beauty of wood grain. Even after the fall of the July Monarchy, the aesthetic persisted through the mid-19th century, influencing the design of sleigh beds and armchairs across Europe and America.

Value Factors for Louis Philippe Furniture

The typical price range for Louis Philippe Furniture is $800 - $1,000 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The quality and figure of the wood veneer, particularly 'flame' mahogany or walnut.
• The condition and authenticity of the gray or white marble surfaces often found on larger case pieces.
• Provenance and evidence of 19th-century construction techniques versus modern machine-made replicas.
• The presence of original hardware, such as recessed drawer pulls or simple brass escutcheons.

Tips for Buying Louis Philippe Furniture

• Examine the 'doucine' or ogee molding on the top edges of commodes and armoires to ensure the curves are smooth and characteristic of the period.
• Check for the use of high-quality fruitwoods or mahogany veneers, which were preferred over the elaborate marquetry of previous eras.
• Verify the presence of original marble tops on dressers and commodes, as replacements can significantly decrease the item's market value.
• Distinguish between 19th-century originals and late 20th-century 'Louis Philippe Style' reproductions by inspecting joinery and wood oxidation.

Items in This Collection

• Louis Philippe Sleigh Bed
• Louis-Philippe Armchair
• Louis Philippe Armoire
• Louis Philippe Side Chair
• Louis Philippe Style Sleigh Bed
• Louis Philippe Sofa
• French Louis Philippe Mirror
• Louis Philippe Mirror Value & Price Guide
• Louis Philippe Commode
• Louis Philippe Dresser