PIANO BIDERMEIER

Very rare Bidermeier period piano in mahogany, ebony and lemon veneer, decorated with finely chased ormolu motifs. In addition to the keyboard and soundboard, the interior includes a working table with various objects in mother-of-pearl, crystal and gilt bronze. The ensemble rests on a pedestal comprising four arched legs and a mahogany veneered base. Signed by Sebastian Kober.

The Biedermeier period extends from 1815 (Congress of Vienna) to 1848 (start of the Revolution of 1848-1849) in the states of the German Confederation and in Austria. In political terms, it is linked to the German Restoration and the development of these states after the Napoleonic period and the Congress of Vienna. The term Biedermeier refers both to the bourgeois culture and art of the period, and to the literature of the time. The restriction of freedoms and, above all, a certain mistrust of political action led artists to retreat into the private sphere, the family and the home. Escape into idyll and privacy are therefore typical themes. The poet Jean Paul already spoke of "total happiness in limitation". Biedermeier furniture, though not homogeneous in style, is distinguished by its understated elegance. Its purpose is not to impress, but to contribute to a feeling of comfort and, above all, to be functional. The first furniture in this style was created in Vienna, taking its inspiration from English furniture. Given the great importance and value placed on craftsmanship, typical Biedermeier furniture tends to be small pieces, such as chests of drawers, secretaries or sewing tables.