Biedermeier bench seat

A Biedermeier bench seat in walnut veneer with curved top rail, circa 1830.  The Biedermeier period refers to an era in Central Europe between 1815 and 1848, during which the middle class grew in number, and the arts appealed to common sensibilities. It began with the Congress of Vienna at the end of the Napoleonic Wars in 1815 and ended with the onset of the Revolutions of 1848.  The middle classes, who were prospering, wanted a simpler style, which could be functional as well as beautiful. This style, later known as 'Biedermeier', is essentially Empire furniture shorn of its ormolu mounts, excessive gilding and aggressive self-importance. Its original geometric shape often leads it to being described as the forerunner of modern furniture.

Width: 53 1/8" (134.9cm)
Height: 30 3/4" (78.1cm)
Depth: 18 1/2" (47cm)