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Oak and Walnut Tester Bed
- This lavish American oak and walnut tester bed is adorned by elaborate engraving
- A canopy of folded mahogany silk is supported by engraved columns that frame the overall design
- The columns allow one to hang curtains to surround the bed for complete darkness at night
- Such beds were exceptionally popular in the South during the 19th century
- Get complete item description here
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Tester, or canopy, beds. . .
Tester, or canopy, beds were first introduced to high society in the 13th century as an alternative-style bed that allowed for greater seclusion. The first tester beds were made with suspended cords attached to overhead beams on which curtains hung. By the 15th century, canopy beds developed into palatial pieces of furniture. During the reign of William and Mary, the bedsteads became very tall, although they were less wide, in keeping with their loftier rooms. Eventually, tester beds were crafted in more stylized designs, which led furniture makers to consider both functionality and aesthetics when creating these masterpieces. The present bed embodies those that were highly popular in the antebellum South, featuring highly romantic and lavish designs with heavy hung drapes.
Circa 1840
79” wide x 93 1/2” deep x 117” high
| Period: | 19th Century |
| Origin: | America |
| Type: | Beds |
| Depth: | 93.5 in. (237.49 cm) |
| Width: | 79.0 in. (200.66 cm) |
| Height: | 117.0 in. (297.18 cm) |
Buy With Confidence
For over a century, we've placed important art, rare jewels and exceptional objects with more than 14,000 collectors worldwide, and have been recognized by trusted publications including Robb Report, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and more.
On Approval
Examine select works in person before you commit
125% Guarantee
Full credit plus 5% annual appreciation for five years
Trusted Expertise
Over two centuries of combined experience across our specialists
