How do you identify Biedermeier furniture?

To identify Biedermeier furniture, familiarize yourself with its characteristics. Rather than a maker, Biedermeier refers to a period in history that began in 1815 with the close of the Napoleonic Wars and lasted through 1848, when revolutions broke out in many Central European countries. Furniture produced during this era usually features simple, symmetrical designs with rounded corners and edges; cherry, walnut and birch wood were among the most common materials. During the 20th century, several manufacturers introduced lines of Biedermeier furniture inspired by 19th-century originals. If you find a marking for a 20th-century maker on your furniture, it is most likely one of these later pieces. Because it may be difficult to determine if a furnishing is an original or an example of the revival style, you may wish to have a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer help you with the identification process. Shop a collection of Biedermeier furniture on 1stDibs.