BIEDERMEIER Meaning and
Definition
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Biedermeier refers to a cultural and artistic movement that emerged in Germany and Austria during the first half of the 19th century, specifically between 1815 and 1848. This term encompasses the period following the Congress of Vienna, which aimed to re-establish political order across Europe after the Napoleonic Wars. The Biedermeier era was characterized by its conservative and middle-class values, which were reflected in various aspects of society, such as art, literature, architecture, furniture, and fashion.
The word "Biedermeier" itself is derived from two German terms: "bieder," meaning honest or upright, and "Meier," a common German surname. Together, these terms find association with the subdued, restrained, and somewhat simple aesthetic that defined the era. Biedermeier art and design focused on domestic life, family values, and the comfort of the middle class, providing them with a sense of security and intimacy in their surroundings.
In terms of furniture, Biedermeier pieces are often characterized by clean lines, minimal decoration, and the use of local wood species such as cherry, walnut, and birch. Functionality and practicality were prioritized over ornate embellishments. The overall aesthetic aimed at creating a warm, cozy atmosphere in the home. Biedermeier style also influenced architecture and fashion, with an emphasis on simplicity, elegance, and traditional craftsmanship.
Overall, Biedermeier represents a cultural phenomenon that reflected the societal values and aspirations of the German and Austrian middle class in the early 19th century. It is recognized for its understated elegance, focus on domesticity, and its contribution to the development of interior design and visual culture.
Common Misspellings for BIEDERMEIER
- viedermeier
- niedermeier
- hiedermeier
- giedermeier
- buedermeier
- bjedermeier
- bkedermeier
- boedermeier
- b9edermeier
- b8edermeier
- biwdermeier
- bisdermeier
- biddermeier
- birdermeier
- bi4dermeier
- bi3dermeier
- biesermeier
- biexermeier
- biecermeier
Etymology of BIEDERMEIER
The word "Biedermeier" is derived from two components: "Bieder" and "Meier".
The term "Bieder" comes from the German adjective "biedermann", which means honest, upright, or respectable. It represents the values of simplicity, conservatism, and middle-class morality.
The term "Meier" refers to Johann Gottlieb Meier, a fictional character created by the German satirical poet Ludwig Eichrodt. Meier symbolized the average middle-class citizen, embodying the ideals of the Biedermeier era.
In the early 19th century, the term "Biedermeier" was coined to describe the period, style, and cultural tendencies prevalent in Germany and Austria from around 1815 to 1848.
Similar spelling words for BIEDERMEIER
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