The Empire in Fontainebleau

Founded in 1975, Maison Osenat has established itself as one of the leading French references on the art market.

Known worldwide, the “L’Empire à Fontainebleau” auctions bring together, three times a year, experts, collectors and enthusiasts of the Napoleonic epic around an exceptional ensemble of historical memorabilia, manuscripts, furniture, silverware and antique weapons.

Based in Fontainebleau, at the heart of a site intimately linked to imperial history, the Empire department has, since the 1990s, formed the historical core of the house, devoted to the legacy of Napoleon and the artistic richness of the nineteenth century.

A house rooted in Napoleonic history

Located in Fontainebleau, the imperial residence par excellence, the department pays tribute to the Napoleonic epic. Uniforms, decorations, portraits, weapons, manuscripts and personal objects bear witness to the destiny of Napoleon and his entourage.

A reference department in France and internationally

The auctions attract historians, museums and collectors. Numerous lots sold by Osenat have entered prestigious private and public collections. The house is regarded as the leading French auction house specialising in Imperial memorabilia.

Landmark sales dedicated to the Imperial epic

Each Empire sale is a major event on the market. The catalogues combine historical research, archival iconography and scholarly expertise in order to present works of museum-level interest.

Expertise, provenance and enhancement

Each object is the subject of an in-depth study, professional photography and comprehensive documentation. The department regularly collaborates with historians and institutions to guarantee the authenticity and value of the works.

Valuation and contact

Our experts assist private individuals, collectors and institutions with the sale, acquisition or appraisal of historical memorabilia and objects from the Empire period.

💬 Do you own a Napoleonic collectible?

Upcoming auctions

Records & results

Contact

Jean-Christophe Chataignier
Jean-Christophe Chataignier Partner, Managing Director
Tel.: +33 (0)6 61 14 87 94
jc.chataignier@osenat.com
Raphaël Pitchal
Raphaël Pitchal Executive Assistant
Tel.: +33 (0)7 86 17 55 19
empire@osenat.com

Experts

Jean-Claude DEY
Arnaud de GOUVION SAINT-CYR
Alain NICOLAS
Pierre GHENO
Cyrille FROISSART
Cabinet TURQUIN
Françoise BERTHELOT-VINCHON
Cabinet de BAYSER
Marie de la CHEVARDIERE

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