Biedermeier admirer

Biedermeier burlwood and ebonized dining chairs, each with burlwood veneered tablet back, leather upholstered seat, tapered legs, German, possibly period, 34-1/2 x 19 x 14 in. Good condition overall with some sun fading, minor pest damage, possible restoration to ebonizing on backs, not examined under upholstery. Estimated USD1,000-2,000, sold for USD1,800.

Biedermeier style day bed. Simple low back supporting outward flared serpentine arms, supported by a burl faced box base set on fan carved demilune feet. Upholstered seat with matching throw pillow. 33 1/2" high, 74 1/2" wide, 25 1/2" deep, good condition, old refinish. Estimated at USD2,000-3,000 sold at starting bid of USD1,400.

Biedermeier light wood abatant drop front desk with single top drawer. Nested interior consists of eight drawers with light and dark contrasting woods over two door open base, straight lines with applied brass embellishments, on short tapered legs. 59 1/2 " high, 34 1/4" wide, 16 1/2" D, old refinish, minor veneer damage around base. Estimated at USD1,500-2,500. Unsold.

Biedermeier line inlaid crest, fruitwood arms with ebonized supports, German, 19th century, 36 x 61 x 21 in. Scattered breaks and repairs to arms and legs, back of frame with later yellow paint, some later nails, arm supports possibly restored, not examined under upholstery. Estimated USD400-800, sold for USD1,400.

Biedermeier Walnut Vanity Chair, having semi-circular back of bent wood construction above an upholstered circular seat, raised on splayed tapering circular legs. Height 31 1/4 inches. Estimated USD300-500, sold for USD200.

Swedish Biedermeier dining chairs, comprising two arm and four sides, each with scrolled and veneered crest, tapered legs, silk-upholstered seats, attributed to Carl Johan, Sweden, circa 1920s, armchair 36-1/4 x 22-1/2 x 21 in. Minor surface wear and abrasions, some distress to varnish, minor sun fading, stains and wear to upholstery. Estimated USD2,000-3,000, sold for USD1,100.

I noticed a profusion of Biedermeier furniture for sale at auction recently, (as above), and it struck me that in most cases these pieces are going for a song, perhaps the beginnings of a reflection of a downturn in the market for good quality pieces.

It seems ironic that the style of furniture created for its utilitarian quality should not be finding more favour in a period of economic austerity.