Estimation Napoleon

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Napoleon

Do you own any Napoleonic memorabilia? Are you curious to know what they are worth? Our Experts can provide an appraisal to give you an estimate of the market price, then help you to ensure the best possible price should you decide to sell.

Napoleon and the First Empire

Napoleon Bonaparte has had collectors in a frenzy for several decades. Some sales are entirely dedicated to him. This figure significantly marked the history of France. Even if he abdicated, a sort of cult around his person still exists. The objects that belonged to him can be compared to relics.

In order to establish his power, Napoleon knew how to use the arts in the form of propaganda. Painters such as Gros reconstructed the famous battles such as the battle of Eylau on canvas, where the emperor was shown as loyal to the enemy even though he had lost the battle.

The collection of Napoleon’s objects

Many objects were given to foreign figures or to the newly constituted court. It is not uncommon to come across a miniature depicting the portrait of the Emperor in uniform or of Empress Eugenie. In order to properly regulate Napoleon’s image, powerful symbols were used, such as the bee. One may come across medals depicting Napoleon as Julius Caesar. For his coronation, he wore a laurel wreath made by the goldsmith Martin Guillaume Biennais. One of these gold leaves was sold for 625,000 euros in 2017.

Napoleon initiated the Legion of Honour, a high distinction to reward soldiers for their actions. There are also many awards made to officers such as pairs of pistols.

Selling prices reaching new heights

Objects that once belonged to the Emperor are regularly in the news on the art market. Recently a throne that once belonged to Napoleon I was sold at auction for 500,000 euros. In 2014, one of the Emperor’s hats known as “à la française” was auctioned off 1,500,000 euros.

Amateurs of this period are prepared to spend large sums of money to acquire an object that once belonged to the emperor or a representative. However, beware of objects that claim to have belonged to him, there are many forgeries and the eye of an expert is required for a proper analysis.

How do we appraise your Napoleonic memorabilia?

Requesting an online valuation of your military antique is simple. You just need to complete our appraisal form with a brief description and some photos. This information will be sent directly to one of our Napoleon experts who will provide you with a price range and sales advice.

A team of experts and auctioneers

If you own Napoleonic memorabilia, use our online form for an appraisal.

You will then be contacted by a member of our team of experts and auctioneers to give you an independent opinion of the market price. Should you wish to sell your painting, our specialists will also advise you on the various options available for selling at the best price.

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