WORLD FURNITURE ENCYCLOPEDIA GERMANY - VARIOUS AUTHORS

World Furniture Encyclopedia Germany: A Comprehensive Guide to German Furniture Design

Introduction

Germany has a rich history of furniture design, dating back to the Middle Ages. German furniture is known for its quality craftsmanship, innovative design, and use of high-quality materials. This encyclopedia provides a comprehensive overview of German furniture design, from the Middle Ages to the present day.

Medieval Furniture

The Middle Ages was a time of great creativity and innovation in German furniture design. This period saw the development of new furniture forms, such as the chest of drawers, the armoire, and the table. German furniture from this period is often characterized by its use of carved wood, intricate metalwork, and stained glass.

Renaissance Furniture

The Renaissance was a time of renewed interest in classical art and architecture. This had a profound impact on German furniture design, which became more ornate and elaborate. Renaissance furniture is often characterized by its use of carved wood, marquetry, and gilding.

Baroque Furniture

The Baroque period was a time of great opulence and excess. This is reflected in German furniture design, which became even more ornate and elaborate. Baroque furniture is often characterized by its use of carved wood, gilding, and mirrors.

Rococo Furniture

The Rococo period was a time of reaction against the excesses of the Baroque period. Rococo furniture is characterized by its use of light, graceful forms and delicate ornamentation.

Neoclassicism Furniture

Neoclassicism was a return to the classical forms of ancient Greece and Rome. This had a profound impact on German furniture design, which became more simple and restrained. Neoclassical furniture is often characterized by its use of straight lines, simple forms, and classical motifs.

Romanticism Furniture

Romanticism was a reaction against the rationalism of the Enlightenment. This had a profound impact on German furniture design, which became more expressive and emotional. Romantic furniture is often characterized by its use of curved forms, rich colors, and elaborate ornamentation.

Historicism Furniture

Historicism was a movement that sought to revive the styles of the past. This had a profound impact on German furniture design, which became eclectic and varied. Historicist furniture is often characterized by its use of different styles, such as Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque.

Art Nouveau Furniture

Art Nouveau was a new style of art that emerged in the late 19th century. This style was characterized by its use of organic forms, flowing lines, and bright colors. Art Nouveau furniture is often characterized by its use of carved wood, wrought iron, and stained glass.

Bauhaus Furniture

The Bauhaus was a school of art and design that was founded in Germany in 1919. The Bauhaus had a profound impact on German furniture design, which became more functional and minimalist. Bauhaus furniture is often characterized by its use of simple forms, clean lines, and primary colors.

Post-War Furniture

After World War II, German furniture design underwent a period of reconstruction. This period saw the development of new furniture forms, such as the modular sofa and the recliner. Post-war furniture is often characterized by its use of new materials, such as plastic and metal.

Contemporary Furniture

Contemporary German furniture design is characterized by its diversity and innovation. German furniture designers are constantly pushing the boundaries of design, creating new and exciting furniture forms. Contemporary German furniture is often characterized by its use of new materials, such as carbon fiber and recycled plastic.