Know what you are buying
"French furniture" is used loosely. A genuine antique is generally a hundred years old or more. Vintage pieces are younger, often mid-twentieth century. French-style or reproduction pieces borrow the shapes — cabriole legs, carved crests, painted panels — but are newer.
All three have a place in a well-dressed home. What matters is that the description is honest, so ask the dealer directly which category a piece falls into.
What to look at closely
Look at the back and underside: hand-cut joints, older screws and natural wear where hands and feet meet the piece usually point to age. Check drawers run smoothly and that veneers and gilding are sound or honestly restored.
Painted pieces, such as a Rococo-style commode, are often refreshed over the years. A repaint is not a flaw, but it should be mentioned.
Placing French pieces at home
French furniture loves light and air. A pair of armchairs either side of a fireplace, a commode under a large mirror, or a carved settee in a bedroom bay all work beautifully without making the room feel like a period set.