High-post bedstead

Status

Not on view

Date1780-1800

Geography Possibly made - United States

Medium/TechniqueMahogany (footposts), poplar (secondary), paint

DimensionsOverall (H x W x D): 92 3/8 in. x 66 in. x 78 in. (234.63 cm x 167.64 cm x 198.12 cm)

Credit LineAcquired through the generosity of the Monica and Hermen Greenberg Foundation, 2001

Object numberH-4217

DescriptionHigh-post bedstead with a projecting, mitered, cove-molded cornice (modern), baluster-and-urn-turned posts, a serpentine-top headboard (modern), and pegged rails. The footposts have reeded baluster shafts above fluted urns, while the corresponding elements on the headposts are plain. All four posts have ring-turned capitals, vertical blocks with chamfered corners above the rails, and straight, square or Marlborough legs with block feet having applied cuffs. The headboard is tenoned into the headposts. The rails, which are higher than they are wide, are beaded on both sides of their upper face and the bottom outside edge. A shallow rabbet cut along their top inside edge is fitted with pegs for a roped or sacking bottom. The rails are tenoned into the posts and secured with iron bed bolts; there are circular stamped brass bed bolt covers. The tester or lath frame (modern) rests on iron pins in the tops of the posts and features six wooden pulleys through which cords run for drawing up the curtains or drapery. Pairs of brass cloak pins (modern) in each of the four posts hold the cords in place when the drapery is raised. Each headpost has an empty hole just above the upper cloak pin. The headposts and the rails retain their original red painted finish.

Draped with red-printed toile with red and white fringe.

MarkingsEach of the posts and rails is marked with Roman numerals. Notes dated September 10, 2001 in the Conservation File (a copy of which is in the Curatorial File) describe the marks as follows: Posts: A- Marks "I" and "II" present. B- Marks "III" and "IIII" present. C- Marks "V" and "VI" present. D- Marks "VII" and "VIII" present. Rails: E- Marks "V" and "III" present. F- Marks "I" and "VIII" present. G- Marks "VI" and "VII" present. H- Marks "II" and "IIII" present.

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