Classicism and Biedermeier

Paintings by international master painters such as Angelika Kauffmann or Jens Juel are shown next to furniture and arts and crafts in the exhibition of classical art.

Part of this was a component of the precious decoration of the Emkendorf manor. Friedrich and Julia Reventlow purchased it during their travels around Europe. 

Here, the Reventlows demonstrated connoisseurship and knowledge of the most contemporary taste. That is shown by two red and blue covered settees from Paris or a console table with candelabras and a table clock. Back then, France was the formative cultural nation. 

From living culture to bourgeois furniture

Whilst the classicism exhibition is concerned with the nobles’ living culture, the Biedermeier exhibition treats the beginnings of civilian living culture. Retreat into the private sphere is typical for this period following the Carlsbad decrees of 1919 and the ensuing political repressions. The valuable furniture was therefore not primarily designed for representative purposes, but communicates a need for comfort.