Classic Pieces: The Four-Poster Bed
This kingly bed comes in enough styles to suit any design aesthetic
Houzz Contributor. Hi There! I currently live in a 1920s cottage in Atlanta that I'll describe as "collected."
I got into design via Landscape Architecture, which I studied at the University of Virginia. I've been writing about design online for quite a few years over at Hatch: The Design Public Blog.
Houzz Contributor. Hi There! I currently live in a 1920s cottage in Atlanta... More »
The four-poster bed has sustained its popularity for centuries. It is believed that it was first designed in the 1400s in Austria, and that its popularity spread across Europe and eventually to the rest of the world. Popular with the Tudors in England, the four-poster became known as "the bed of kings." Elaborate bedding of ornate silks, satins and even plumes of feathers followed, and the bed became a status symbol.
Perhaps the most famous four-poster bed is The Bed of Ware, which is part of The Victoria and Albert Museum's collection. Crafted circa 1590, it is believed to have once been a curiosity at a bed and breakfast and was made famous by a mention in Shakespeare's Twelfth Night.
Perhaps the most famous four-poster bed is The Bed of Ware, which is part of The Victoria and Albert Museum's collection. Crafted circa 1590, it is believed to have once been a curiosity at a bed and breakfast and was made famous by a mention in Shakespeare's Twelfth Night.
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| While bed curtains had been used to keep out drafts even before the first four-poster was designed, the style gave this sheltering function a much more regal look. |
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Today's more minimalist aesthetic can be satisfied by taking the fabric canopy off the bed structure.
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Eventually, the horizontal canopy slats were removed and just a stately frame remained.
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| Last to go were the outer canopy rails, leaving four tall vertical posts. This look is especially great for a bed that needs to stand up to the large scale of a high ceiling or a grand master bedroom. |
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| Okay, enough with the evolution of the four-poster. Let's look at various elements and styles of these beds. Finials at the top of the post are a way to give the bed unique style. I remember that the finials on my parents' bed came off, and we kids used to use them as microphones and pretended we were Cyndi Lauper while we jumped on the bed and sang into them. |
by betsy burnham
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A range of post styles exists. This intricately carved bed has exotic style that adds to the hints of Chinoiserie in the room.
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| A range of headboard styles are available, from a simple rectangle to curves and even upholstered styles. This curvaceous antiqued-white version works well with elaborate window treatments and coordinating wallpaper. |
by Robin Muto
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Footboards also come in upholstered styles.
by Colvin Design
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This more minimalist, clean-lined model is at the other end of the style spectrum with its very contemporary look.
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The bed of kings needn't be king-sized. A pair of twin-sized four-posters have a strong presence in this guest room.
by C.W. Styling
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Whether you like a Japanese minimal aesthetic, dream of decorating like the Tudors, want a cozy farmhouse feel or prefer straight-up American colonial revival style, there is a four-poster for everyone.
More: Float Your Bed for a Great New Look
9 Tips for a Well-Dressed Bed
Canopy Beds Can Be Your Safe Haven
More: Float Your Bed for a Great New Look
9 Tips for a Well-Dressed Bed
Canopy Beds Can Be Your Safe Haven
Comments
CAROLE MEYER What beautiful photos of these beds......... 
16 months ago · Like
ozkez Four poster beds without canopies or drapery just look naked to me!!
16 months ago · Like
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moulton Love these pictures
15 months ago · Like
The Mirrored Bed Company Wonderful article on four poster beds, thank you for sharing from The Mirrored Bed Company! Perhaps you might like one of ours? 
13 months ago · Like
Ideabook updated on Feb. 8, 2012.
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