by 
The Curious Bag
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The Shakers are a religious group which started in the mid-1700s. They call themselves the United Society of Believers in Christ's Second Appearing. According to National Geographic, by 1989 there were only twelve Shakers remaining. The Shakers are known for their distinctive style of handcrafted furniture.
Beliefs
Frederick Evans, a Shaker elder, said, "The divine man has no right to waste money upon what you all call beauty in his house or his daily life, while there are people living in misery." The Shakers also believed it was important to keep their minds and hands free from sin. These beliefs affected the design and quality of their furniture.
Design
Shaker furniture was designed for function. Details, such as tall bedposts, carved feet or inlayed designs, which served no purpose or wasted wood, were not used.
Furniture Joints
Dovetailed joints are a trademark of Shaker furniture. Each piece of wood fits together without the use of nails or screws.
Finishes
The finish used on furniture was considered just as important as the building process. Stains were made by thinning paint. The stains highlighted the grain of the wood.
Authenticity
Today many woodworkers attempt to replicate the Shaker style; but authentic antique Shaker furniture is highly sought after.
Source:
National Geographic: Photo Gallery: The Shakers, Kentucky
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