The Empire tub is the focal point in this space. It reads as a piece of sculpture, filling the window bay. It is framed by the soft and simple curtains; the visual height of the ceiling is captured by the tall spare tree and the nearly transparent chandelier. There is no question that the space is enlivened by the patterned red rug. The rug is a bold statement with traditional overtones. It feels like just the right amount of decoration.
I cannot resist publishing a really beautiful bath when I see one. In this case, I love the symmetrical space for tub placement just under a window hung with a linen Roman shade with delicate lace trim . It fits with enough room to breathe. This is an Empire tub set on a traditional floor of honed octagons and dots. The chair is small, delicate and quirky that counter balances the solid bathtub. The table also is small with an authentic worn finish. The tall vase on the table balances the space that is well thought out and entirely pleasing.
A page from the French Empire style. A bathtub for Napoleon.
This bathtub falls in the category of “work of art”. It has a tin lining with a carved stone exterior. The base is a wood molding with great patina and the gold decoration Napoleonic. In fact, this tub was designed for Napoleon himself. He was a fanatic about his personal hygiene and was devoted to cleanliness at a time (1850’s) when the average Parisian bathed 2.25 times per year. History tells us that Napoleon had a passion for hot baths and often spent more than an hour in the steamy atmosphere.
Elegance, simplicity, classicism and modernism come together in this space. The light colored textured stone walls and floor, both of the same material, against the figured marble tub creates a sense of tension; rough against smooth, light and dark, modern and traditional, minimal and complex.
