The name of the largest and best known Utopist sect in America in the 20th century. Derived from “Shaking Quakers,” because during their religious ceremonies the faithful danced, shaking their hands and feet to free themselves of their sins.
The Shakers were well known for their philosophy on life, based on the principles of egalitarianism and the community, as well as for the excellence of their work. Their furniture are world famous for its fine craftsmanship, as are other products such as fabrics, baskets and jam. And they are the inventors of numerous objects which have entered our daily lives, such as clothespins, the circular saw, the screw propeller and flat broom.
Shaker furniture is built according to the principle of absolute harmony between form and function, and is marked by a special elegance, and simple austere beauty. Cupboards, cabinets, commodes, beds, desks, and above all tables and chairs; furniture pieces which often feature wooden wheels, to facilitate their displacement. The "ladder back chair" is especially well known, a chair with a high back joined by a series of crossbeams recalling a ladder, and lightweight so that it can be hung up on the wall to allow for the floor to be cleaned.