Instruments With Distinctive Character: The Empire style (1804-1830), originating in Paris, took the world of the grand salons by storm and was closely linked to the personality cult surrounding Napoleon Bonaparte. Representation and decoration were the objectives of the style which was characterized by straight lines, austerity and solemnity, for example in furniture, applied art and fashion. We have recreated this style in our Empire grand pianos, but not in its most opulent form. The slender lines of marquetry emphasize the classic elegance of the Early Napoleonic era. This is an ornament for any room in which the grand piano can communicate the flair and atmosphere of a French salon.