Biedermeier in Vienna

Metternich

The Biedermeier period in Vienna and the rest of Austria occurred between 1815 and 1848, and is a comparable time period to that of U.S. culture in the 1950's. This period came about as the Austrian monarchy feared the occurrence of revolution (like in France in the 1790's), and a conservative reaction was implemented. One of the main organizers of this conservative reaction was Klemens von Metternich, who was Chancellor of Austria (and a main adviser to the Emporer) from 1821-1848. He enforced a secret service, and picked out citizens he deemed threatening to the monarchy. This caused the population to have emphasized lives in the home, as being outside could be quite dangerous. The art during this time period reflected this emphasis on the home, showing portraits of families, leading "perfect" home lives. It also showed an emphasis on appreciation of nature.

Example of Biedermeier Household

Examples of Biedermeier art in the Belvedere

Klemens von Metternich

Picture Bibliography:
http://amyvermillion.com/blog/2011/01/doll-house/german-sitting-room-of-the-biedermeier-period-1815-50/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Klemens_von_Metternich