Styles in furniture - Biedermeier

In style, the Biedermeier is situated between Neoclassical and Romanticism. It was specific to the bourgeoisie that had formed in Germany, Austria, northern Italy and Scandinavia as a result of the economic boom following the Napoleonic Wars. The period is from 1815 to 1848 until the beginning of the European Revolution.

Pope Biedermeier, symbol of the middle class

The name of the style comes from a caricature of the time, "Papa Biedermeier", which symbolizes the comfort of the middle class. It is the period when family life and activities are intertwined with passions. New pieces appear in the house: the letter-writing desk, the secretaire-style wardrobe and the piano - the centrepiece of cultural gatherings. Around the piano, poems were recited, discussions were held, music was played and dancing took place.

Biedermeier furniture derives mainly from Napoleon's French Empire style, to which it softens the rigidity and makes it more realistic, and from the Directoire, to which it adds extra weight, transforming delicacy into durability. Instead of mahogany, brought from the colonies and more expensive because of taxes, local woods are used, such as cherryhair, frasin and oak tree. Wood is left natural or light colours are used. Sometimes colours imitating mahogany are used, which are applied to cherry wood or hair. Metal ornaments are avoided, the style is simple and elegant.

A simpler style that does away with elements without utility

It's a less precious style, closer to the people. Surfaces are no longer so varnished, leaving the pores of the wood showing and knots are no longer removed. Rarely, in contrast to the light colours, ebony accents are used. It's a style with simple geometry, no flourishes and other elements without utility. Characteristic of the period is that some pieces of furniture take on other roles, becoming more useful. For example, the round table used to display objects becomes the family table, surrounded by chairs, where various activities take place in the evening.

In general, the Biedermeier style of the first half of the 19th century is a conflict of ideas between Classicism and Romanticism. Over time, the style moved more towards the Romantic side. Simple, straight lines became curved, simple and austere surfaces were embellished, fantastic elements appeared in the decoration. However, the focus on brightness, simplicity and utility still remain characteristic.

If you liked it, you can also learn interesting things about theArt Nouveau, Rococo,Neogotic,Baroque,Chippendale or Shabby Chic.