This late 19th - early 20th c. print celebrates or commemorates the Bal De L'Empire, and could refer to any number of opulent social events of the same name. Originally celebrated in the French Empire (Napolean Bonaparte), then in other historically notable iterations, and later, in the Second Empire (Napoleon III; 1919-1939). Contemporary galas also use the phrase to indicate historical or thematic connection to the original(s), often incorporating period dress, etcetera.