Posts Tagged ‘amish shaker furniture’

Shaker Furniture

Tuesday, January 26th, 2010

“Put your hands to work and your heart to God”

Shaker Furniture traces its origins back to the time of the American Revolutionary War (1775-1783). A sect of the Quakers, the “Shakers” escaped the religious turmoil of their native England and settled in close-knit, self-sufficient communities along the Eastern seaboard.

A Shaker style dining set

A Shaker style dining set

Early Shaker furniture construction began as a necessity to accommodate large worship gatherings. The Shaker ethics of simplicity, practicality and integrity informed the construction process: pine wood was commonly used for its light weight and affordability, innovative joinery increased durability, and curved wood slats provided comfort.

Shaker furniture boasts a one-of-a-kind beauty. Elegant finials, tapered spindles and curved profiles lend an elegance to each handcrafted piece. Today, Shaker furniture remains in high demand among collectors and casual shoppers.