Biedermeier

Biedermeier (bee de MY er) refers to a type of furniture design that became popular after Napoleon was finally defeated in Waterloo in 1815.

During the Napoleonic era, the style of furniture that was favored (at least by the rich) was ostentatious, grand and usually made out of expensive mahogany wood.

After Napoleon's defeat, the middle classes, who were increasingly financially comfortable, wanted furniture that was both beautiful and functional - Biedermeier was born.
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