Regency: broadly classical, heavier than Georgian, Empire: severely classical rectilinear forms
MOTIFS
Animal masks, dolphins, palmettes (shape of palm leaf), winged lions, eagles, Egyptian motifs such as lotus flowers, scarabs (sacred beetle of ancient Egypt): bees (Napoleon’s emblem), swans (Josephine’s emblem)
ORIGINS AND DEVELOPMENT
Regency: named after the regency (1811-20) of George, Prince of Wales (later George IV).
Empire: style inspired by ancient Rome and used in celebration of the reign, empire, and military victories of Napoleon.
