Is It Schrank or Shrunk?

It’s October and we are celebrating all things, German. And low and behold – we found German furniture!

It goes without saying that we are fans of furniture. We love the craftsmanship, the various designs, the abundant amount of uses and the story behind pieces.

Since it happens to be Oktoberfest season and we have a longing interest in furniture, we fell down the Google rabbit hole and found some German furniture! More specifically, the impressive shrank – meaning a wall closing off a niche. Oh, and how they do cover the wall.

(Side note: the German name is “Schrank” but Americans have taken to pronouncing it “Shrunk.”)

They originally were crafted to hold clothes but soon evolved to be a focal piece in a home, hosting dinnerware, knick-knacks, and sometimes serve as a pantry. They often incorporate shelves and drawers to provide ultimate storage opportunities.

Similar to an armoire, this piece can come in various sizes but small is not one of them…or medium for that matter. The Schrank generally covers an entire wall and is no joke on weight. Because of the exquisite hardwood selection in Germany, these pieces are often similar to trying to move a wall and can stand the test of time.

In addition to being made from wood, many in the early 17th century incorporated decorative painting or stenciling – bringing color into the home. By the 19th century, quality began to wain and fabricated board cheapened the once idyllic piece of furnishing. The higher quality, longer-lasting Schranks are now considered antiques and can go for several thousands of dollars.

The Schrank is so large and dominant, that it has influenced the design of homes built on military installations in the United States. Many architects understood the cultural importance of these pieces and took their size into consideration when drawing homes for soldiers and their families that may be returning stateside from tours in Germany.

With such German influences around the Penny Mustard locations, surely someone out there must have one! Do you? Your grandparents? Was it a family heirloom? Does it hold treasures from the land of your ancestors? Come and tell us all the stories about that massive piece of furniture!