Ornate Canopy Bed

c. 1750
$29,800 USD SOLD
Dimensions
W: 95.0" D: 67.0" H: 89.5"
Materials
Pigment
Northern Elmwood
Fabric
Collection #
CMPG001
Estimated Shipping
$2,000

A Chinese canopy bed, or marriage bed, was the most important part of a bride's dowry and was the central feature of her personal quarters. Traditionally, beds were central to Chinese everyday life and were very versatile: a seat upon which to entertain friends during the day and an intimate sleeping chamber at night. Decorated with fine carvings, inlay, and accessories, the canopy bed became an important symbol of rank and status, and the subject of rivalry among wives and concubines.

This exquisite 18th-century example features a canopy topped with elaborate interlocking dougong brackets and panels carved with mythical immortals. The canopy sides are decorated with open latticework and curvilinear spandrels trimmed by a beaded edge. The base is elaborately carved and elevated by a large storage compartment accessible by two small doors on the front. A low lattice railing encloses the bed, which has been transformed into a plush, upholstered daybed with the recent addition of custom chenille cushions. The bed's elmwood construction has aged beautifully from two centuries of use, softened to a warm brown and marked by traces of the original brightly painted finish.

Questions? Ask us

What They're Saying

Mick de Giulio | de Giulio kitchen design

“I love working with PAGODA RED. When I’m looking for something distinctive for one of my clients, I can be sure I’ll find it there. Betsy has an incredible eye for the beautiful and unique and she continues to offer one of the best collections of Chinese furniture and decorative art.”

Receive our weekly email on design &
creating memorable spaces