Details
Description
Product Information: Biedermeier Chair Set (c. 1815–1848)
Historical Background & Inspiration
These chairs originate from the Biedermeier period (1815–1848), a …
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Product Information: Biedermeier Chair Set (c. 1815–1848)
Historical Background & Inspiration
These chairs originate from the Biedermeier period (1815–1848), a cultural golden age of the German-speaking bourgeoisie in Central Europe—particularly in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. The style was a conscious counter-movement following the Congress of Vienna (1815) and the rejection of the preceding representative elegance of the Baroque and Rococo periods.
The Biedermeier era reflects a return to comfortable domesticity, family, and bourgeois values. After the Napoleonic Wars, the upwardly mobile middle class sought solace and security in the private sphere. This led to a golden age of craftsmanship, in which cabinetmakers expressed their mastery of the craft at the highest level.
The Biedermeier period reflects a renewed focus on comfortable domesticity, family, and bourgeois values. The sources of inspiration were diverse:
Classicism: Elegant, minimalist lines inspired by ancient Roman models
English furniture traditions: Influences from Thomas Chippendale and contemporary British design
French Empire style: Legacy of Napoleon's aesthetic legacy
Natural materials: Local forests and sustainable resource management
Special materials & craftsmanship
Woodworking:
Solid woods: Cherry, birch, walnut, or maple – carefully selected from European forests
Veneering: Exquisite surface veneers made from reversed and star-shaped veneer rings – a hallmark of the highest level of craftsmanship
Joints: Refined mortise and tenon joints, glued with reversible adhesives, designed for restoration to last for generations
Characteristic construction techniques:
Saber legs: Elegantly curved legs with a subtle taper to the base
Curved backrest: Ergonomically optimized through classic design Craftsmanship Principles
Cross Bracing: Alternating X-shaped braces – both functional and decorative
Upholstery: Handcrafted upholstery with natural materials (horsehair, reed, linen), reupholstered with a high-quality striped cotton-linen blend
Production Process
Biedermeier craftsmanship followed a deliberate, time-intensive process:
Wood Selection: Careful selection of the finest wood qualities
Drying & Storage: Natural drying over several months for stability
Carving & Shaping: Manual work with precise specifications
Veneering: Complex marquetry and veneering techniques
Assembly: Masterful joining and gluing techniques without metal fittings
Surface Finish: Natural oiling or wax polishing for breathability and durability
The craftsmanship of this era reached its zenith – the furniture was meant to last a lifetime.
Cultural Significance & Recognition
These chairs represent:
The transition from craftsmanship to industrialization: The Biedermeier period marks the swan song of pure craftsmanship before manufacturing took over.
Bourgeois Appreciation: A symbol of the burgeoning middle-class consciousness of the 19th century.
Museum Quality: Original pieces from this era can be found in important art museums and collections in Vienna, Berlin, Munich, and other European cultural centers.
Collector's Item: Coveted antiques among lovers of classic design worldwide.
Nationality & Place of Production
Region of Origin: German-speaking area (likely Germany, Austria, or Switzerland) – based on stylistic features.
Craftsmanship Tradition: Typical of the renowned cabinetmakers' and joiners' guilds of these regions.
Period: Early to mid-Biedermeier period (c. 1820–1840).
Durability & Sustainability
These pieces of furniture embody state-of-the-art sustainable design of the 19th century:
Solid wood construction instead of Veneer plaques
Reversible glues and finishes – a chair can be restored multiple times throughout its life
Timeless aesthetic quality – not a passing trend
Over 175 years of proven durability
Restoration status: The chairs have undergone a professional, full restoration, respecting the original construction and historical materials. The new upholstery and fabric covering adhere to historical standards and color schemes of the period. I have official proof of authenticity such as vintage catalogs,
designer records,
or other literature sources and take full responsibility for any authenticity issues arising
from
misattribution
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- Dimensions
- 18.11ʺW × 17.32ʺD × 33.86ʺH
- Seat Height
- 18.11 in
- Period
- Early 19th Century
- Country of Origin
- Germany
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Birch
- Cherry Wood
- Condition
- Good Condition, Unknown, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Brown
- Condition Notes
- Very Good — This vintage item has no defects, but it may show slight traces of use\. Professionally restored, Reupholstered Very Good — This vintage item has no defects, but it may show slight traces of use\. Professionally restored, Reupholstered less
Returns & Cancellations
Return Policy - All sales are final 48 hours after delivery, unless otherwise specified in the description of the product.
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