I’m excited for today’s post. I was anticipating our lesson would pivot on the tell-tale signs of this era of furniture and design. And, of course, we will have the same. However, I was fascinated by the broader historical context. Granted, the following historical overview is grossly curt and uninformed. I merely want to give you a sense of why the furniture appears as we find it today in antique stores and museums.
So here we are: Napoleon the gregarious has been exiled to the island of St. Helena after a second and final defeat at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. During his reign as French Emperor beginning in 1804, Europe was overwhelmed with war and chaos. He had made a tremendous impact on the region, dominating the landscape through Italy, Sicily, Egypt, and much of Europe. During his reign, Empire furniture prevailed. As you might imagine, the aesthetic was detailed, heavily adorned, and unattainable by the middle class.
Following his defeat at Waterloo, the Congress of Vienna convened to establish a sense of order in the region. The time to follow was marked by restraint and intolerance politically, with leadership aimed to reduce conflict and disorder. The middle class began to thrive and the arts flourish. In juxtaposition to Empire furniture, Biedermeier furniture emerged marked by elegant, simplified lines, designed for livability and use in the home. Neoclassical elements such as columns, shells, and the lyre are present in the pieces. Smooth curved shapes are predominant. You will find the furniture makes much of its materials, particularly wood; burled wood is a significant feature. Its breathtaking. So, big picture: Biedermeier furniture has its origin in Post-Napoleonic Europe, spanning some 30-40 years from 1815 to the 1840’s. Its graceful, elegant, and confident, while decidedly restrained.
Period Austrian Biedermeier Figured Walnut Center Table. Biedermeier Armoire. Breathtakingly Detailed Viennese Biedermeier Chest. A Pair of Biedermeier Chairs. Biedermeier Drop-Front Gentleman’s Desk. Biedermeier Armoire.
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