The Only Ornamentation On American Shaker Furniture Was Provided By
When it comes to furniture design, the Shakers are known for their simplistic and functional approach. The Shakers were a religious group that believed in simplicity, honesty, and hard work. They believed that excessive ornamentation was a distraction from the purpose of the object, and therefore, their furniture was designed to be practical and functional without any unnecessary embellishments. In fact, the only ornamentation on American Shaker furniture was provided by...
The Wood Itself
The Shakers used high-quality wood in their furniture, and they were very particular about the wood they used. They preferred local hardwoods such as maple, cherry, and walnut. They also used softwoods such as pine and cedar for their less formal pieces. The beauty of the wood itself was the only ornamentation they needed. They would often use techniques such as bookmatching and quarter sawing to highlight the natural grain of the wood.
The Joinery
The Shakers were known for their expert joinery techniques. They used mortise and tenon joints to connect the pieces of wood together. This technique allowed for a strong and durable connection without the need for any metal fasteners. The joinery was often exposed, and the clean lines and precise angles were considered a decorative element in themselves.
The Proportions
The proportions of Shaker furniture were carefully considered to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The furniture was designed to be comfortable and practical without sacrificing beauty. The clean lines and balanced proportions of Shaker furniture have made it a timeless classic that is still admired today.
The Hardware
The only metal hardware used on Shaker furniture was for hinges, drawer pulls, and locks. The hardware was simple and unobtrusive, and it was often painted or finished to match the color of the wood. The hardware was considered a necessary component of the furniture, but it was never meant to be a decorative element.
The Finishes
The Shakers used simple finishes such as milk paint, oil, or wax to protect and enhance the natural beauty of the wood. They believed that the finish should be durable and practical, but it should not detract from the natural beauty of the wood. The finishes were often matte or low-gloss, which added to the understated elegance of the furniture.
The Textiles
Although not technically a part of the furniture, the textiles used on Shaker furniture were an important element of the overall design. The Shakers were known for their high-quality handwoven textiles such as blankets, rugs, and coverlets. The textiles were often made in muted colors and simple patterns, which complemented the clean lines of the furniture.
Conclusion
The beauty of American Shaker furniture lies in its simplicity and functionality. The only ornamentation on Shaker furniture was provided by the natural beauty of the wood, the expert joinery techniques, the balanced proportions, the simple hardware, the understated finishes, and the high-quality textiles. The result was furniture that was both practical and beautiful, and it has become a timeless classic that is still admired today.