Why were colonial beds so high?

Colonial beds are so high to avoid cool drafts that were close to the ground. Typically, the higher the bed off the ground, the closer it would be to the warmer air.

What is the difference between a canopy bed and a four poster bed?

A four poster bed features four posts, one at each corner. A canopy bed also has four posts, one at each corner, but a canopy bed is covered with a cloth of some sort. They can look similar except for the canopy on top. However, canopy posts are often built differently than four poster beds so they can accommodate the fabric. Shop a collection of four poster and canopy beds from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Is it a four-post bed or four-poster bed?

References show that in the 14th and 15th centuries, “four-post” was the correct terminology. However, today it is considered correct to say “four-poster”. You can find a range of vintage and antique four-poster beds from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What is the point of a four-poster bed?

Today, the point of a four-poster bed is largely stylistic. People place them in bedrooms due to their elegant decorative appearance. Historically, four-poster beds featured heavy curtains that blocked light, preserved privacy and provided warmth in the winter. You'll find a selection of four-poster beds on 1stDibs.

What is a tester on a four poster bed?

The tester on a four poster bed is the canopy over the bed. It was usually made of wood and could be covered with cloth. It provided privacy and helped enclose the bed, making it easier to heat the bed area. On 1stDibs, find an array of vintage and contemporary four-poster beds.

What is the top of a four-poster bed called?

Across the top of older four-poster beds was a wooden rail that was called the tester. The tester often held a rail where curtains were attached that could be pulled closed. Shop a collection of four-poster beds from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

How do I make a four-poster bed modern?

You can make a four-poster bed modern in a number of ways. Try refinishing it with matte spray paint or covering the headboard with fabric or wallpaper. You can also hang fabric in contemporary prints from the frame as a canopy. You'll find a collection of four-poster beds on 1stDibs.

Colonial Poster Bed

Anglo Indian Bed

Bed With Finials

Ralph Lauren Furniture Bed Frames

American Carved Bed 19th Century

Barley Bed

Pencil Post Bed

Antique Bed Frames Mahogany

Caribbean Colonial Furniture

Colonial Turned-Post Four-Poster Queen Bed

$6,960 / item

H 82.63 in W 65.5 in D 88.5 in

Colonial Turned-Post Four-Poster Queen Bed

By Jonathan Charles

Located in Westwood, NJ

sense of lasting quality. This four-poster bed brings historical charm to any bedroom, fitting well in

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Vietnamese Rustic Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

Colonial Turned-Post Four-Poster King Bed

$7,362 / item

H 82.63 in W 81.5 in D 88.5 in

Colonial Turned-Post Four-Poster King Bed

By Jonathan Charles

Located in Westwood, NJ

sense of lasting quality. This four-poster bed brings historical charm to any bedroom, fitting well in

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Vietnamese Rustic Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

Colonial Turned-Post Four-Poster California King Bed

$7,734 / item

H 82.63 in W 77.5 in D 92.5 in

Colonial Turned-Post Four-Poster California King Bed

Located in Westwood, NJ

sturdy frame gives a sense of lasting quality. This four-poster bed brings historical charm to any

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Vietnamese Rustic Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

American Colonial Style Walnut Semi-Poster Full Size Bedframe

$5,500

H 54.5 in W 58 in D 88 in

American Colonial Style Walnut Semi-Poster Full Size Bedframe

Located in Germantown, MD

American Colonial Style Walnut Semi-Poster Full Size Bedframe. Measures 58 " in width, 54.5" in

Category

Early 20th Century American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Walnut

Clore Furniture Hand Made Light Cherry Full Size Poster Bed

$2,895

H 46.5 in W 56.25 in D 83 in

Clore Furniture Hand Made Light Cherry Full Size Poster Bed

Located in Germantown, MD

Clore Furniture Early American Style Hand Made Light Cherry Full Size semi acorn Poster Bed. Hand

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American American Colonial Beds and Bed Fr...

Materials

Cherry

Caribbean Mahogany Reeded and Barley Twist Four Poster Bed, Circa 1820

$30,000

H 82 in W 60 in D 80 in

Caribbean Mahogany Reeded and Barley Twist Four Poster Bed, Circa 1820

Located in Charleston, SC

Caribbean mahogany four-poster bed with a carved decorative scrolled spindle head board and foot

Category

Antique 1820s Caribbean British Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany, Pine

1930s Vintage Mahogany Full Size Poster Bedstead

$1,775

H 76 in W 56 in D 80.5 in

1930s Vintage Mahogany Full Size Poster Bedstead

Located in Germantown, MD

A 1930s pure Mahogany full size Poster Bedstead with urn finials. Measures 80.5" in length, 56" in

Category

Early 20th Century American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Charleston Mahogany Urn Finial Four-Poster Crib with Caning, Circa 1800

$35,000

H 69.5 in W 67 in D 29.75 in

Charleston Mahogany Urn Finial Four-Poster Crib with Caning, Circa 1800

Located in Charleston, SC

Charleston mahogany crib with flanking scrolled cane headboards, four urn finial bulbous turned ringed post, hinged finger locked swing down side panels, original side rails with sup...

Category

Antique Early 1800s American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Brass

Recent Sales

British Colonial Ebonized Teak Four-Poster Bed

Unavailable

H 80 in W 61 in D 88 in

British Colonial Ebonized Teak Four-Poster Bed

Located in Richmond, CA

A British Colonial four-poster recently ebonized teak bed. The headboard features a beautiful

Category

Antique 19th Century Indian British Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Brass

Goan Four-Poster Bed

Unavailable

H 88 in W 67 in D 73 in

Goan Four-Poster Bed

Located in Portland, ME

Portuguese Colonial four poster bed made of ebonized teakwood with highly detailed decorative

Category

Antique 19th Century Indian Beds and Bed Frames

Four Poster Colonial Bed from Sri Lanka

Unavailable

H 83 in W 84.5 in D 60 in

Four Poster Colonial Bed from Sri Lanka

Located in Culver City, CA

Four-poster bed Colonial bed from Sri Lanka made of jackfruit wood.

Category

Early 20th Century Sri Lankan Dutch Colonial Furniture

Materials

Wood

St. Croix Danish West Indies Mahogany King Size Four-Poster Bed, 19th Century

Unavailable

H 88.5 in W 83 in D 90 in

St. Croix Danish West Indies Mahogany King Size Four-Poster Bed, 19th Century

Located in Charleston, SC

A Regal St. Croix Danish West Indies Mahogany King size four-poster bed made in the first-half of

Category

Antique Early 19th Century Virgin Islands Dutch Colonial Beds and Bed Fr...

Materials

Mahogany

Antique British Colonial West Indies Rosewood Queen Poster Bed

Sold

H 88 in W 62 in D 82 in

Antique British Colonial West Indies Rosewood Queen Poster Bed

Located in Palm Beach, FL

Rare and remarkable 19th century West Indies Queen size plantation poster bed handcrafted in

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Caribbean British Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Rosewood

Antique Early American Colonial Style Mahogany Small Single Poster Bed

Sold

H 30 in W 80 in D 30 in

Antique Early American Colonial Style Mahogany Small Single Poster Bed

Located in Dayton, OH

An antique Early American style small single poster bed. Features turned posts and toupie feet

Category

Early 20th Century American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Harden American Colonial Solid Cherrywood Four Poster Queen Size Bed

Sold

H 49.25 in W 65 in L 49.25 in

Harden American Colonial Solid Cherrywood Four Poster Queen Size Bed

By Harden Furniture 1

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous American Colonial style four poster queen size bed By Harden Furniture USA, circa

Category

Late 20th Century American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Brass

Harden Furniture American Colonial Carved Mahogany Queen Size Poster Bed

Sold

H 76 in W 64 in D 87 in

Harden Furniture American Colonial Carved Mahogany Queen Size Poster Bed

By Harden Furniture 1

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous American Colonial style carved mahogany four poster queen size bed frame By Harden

Category

Late 20th Century American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Brass

Colonial Raj Four Poster Bed, Anglo Indian Carved Four Poster Large Double Bed

Sold

H 89 in W 73 in D 89 in

Colonial Raj Four Poster Bed, Anglo Indian Carved Four Poster Large Double Bed

Located in Godshill, Isle of Wight

This is a superior quality piece, the bed originates from India often know as a Raj bed, the bed is

Category

Antique 19th Century Indian Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Teak

Baker Furniture Colonial Williamsburg Solid Mahogany King Size 4 Poster Bed

Sold

H 95.5 in W 84 in D 87 in

Baker Furniture Colonial Williamsburg Solid Mahogany King Size 4 Poster Bed

By Baker Furniture Company

Located in Dayton, OH

A stately Colonial Williamsburg four poster bed by Baker Furniture, Circa 1980s. Features a solid

Category

Vintage 1980s American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Ralph Lauren Sheltering Sky British Colonial Oak King Barley Twist Poster Bed

Sold

H 91.5 in W 86 in D 99.5 in

Ralph Lauren Sheltering Sky British Colonial Oak King Barley Twist Poster Bed

By Ralph Lauren, Henredon

Located in Dayton, OH

Henredon for Ralph Lauren 1301-12 sheltering sky king size poster bed. Made from oak with British

Category

Late 20th Century British Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Oak

Raj Style Colonial Carved 4 Poster Bed, Super King Size

Sold

H 90 in W 79 in D 88 in

Raj Style Colonial Carved 4 Poster Bed, Super King Size

Located in Godshill, Isle of Wight

Raj Style Colonial Carved 4 Poster Bed, Super King Size This is a magnificent large piece it was

Category

Vintage 1960s Anglo-Indian Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Teak

Antique British Colonial Four Poster Queen-Size Bed in Cuban Mahogany, c. 1820

Sold

H 97 in W 89.25 in D 62.5 in

Antique British Colonial Four Poster Queen-Size Bed in Cuban Mahogany, c. 1820

Located in INTERLAKEN, NY

An exceptionally beautiful British-colonial bed from the West Indies in Cuban mahogany, circa 1820

Category

Antique Early 19th Century Caribbean British Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

David T Smith Early American Colonial Pine Pencil Post 4 Poster Full Canopy Bed

Sold

H 82 in W 58 in D 79 in

David T Smith Early American Colonial Pine Pencil Post 4 Poster Full Canopy Bed

By David Smith

Located in Dayton, OH

Early American pine full size pencil post canopy bed by David T Smith, circa 1987. A style

Category

Vintage 1980s American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Pine

David T Smith Early American Colonial Pencil Post 4 Poster Full Size Canopy Bed

Sold

H 82 in W 58 in D 80 in

David T Smith Early American Colonial Pencil Post 4 Poster Full Size Canopy Bed

By David Smith

Located in Dayton, OH

Early American full size pencil post canopy bed by David T Smith, circa 1987. A style popularized

Category

Vintage 1980s American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Hardwood

Vintage Tiger Maple Twin Pineapple Poster Bed

Sold

H 53.5 in W 41.5 in D 79.75 in

Vintage Tiger Maple Twin Pineapple Poster Bed

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous carved tiger maple twin size pineapple poster bed USA, circa 1950s Measures: 41.5

Category

Mid-20th Century American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Maple

Ralph Lauren Carved Walnut King Size Poster Bed

Sold

H 67.25 in W 82.63 in L 67.25 in

Ralph Lauren Carved Walnut King Size Poster Bed

By Ralph Lauren

Located in South Bend, IN

An outstanding carved walnut king size poster bed By Ralph Lauren "Polo" collection USA

Category

Late 20th Century American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Walnut

Kindel Furniture Carved Mahogany Twin Size Poster Bed

Sold

H 55.25 in W 39.75 in D 81.75 in

Kindel Furniture Carved Mahogany Twin Size Poster Bed

By Kindel Furniture

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous carved mahogany twin size poster bed By Kindel Furniture USA, circa 1950s

Category

Vintage 1950s American British Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Baker Furniture Mahogany Chippendale Queen Size Poster Bed

Sold

H 80.75 in W 66.25 in D 87 in

Baker Furniture Mahogany Chippendale Queen Size Poster Bed

By Baker Furniture Company

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous Chippendale style mahogany queen size four poster bed by Baker Furniture. The bed

Category

Vintage 1980s American British Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Brass

Vintage Tiger Maple Twin Pineapple Poster Beds, Pair

Sold

H 53.5 in W 41.5 in L 53.5 in

Vintage Tiger Maple Twin Pineapple Poster Beds, Pair

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous pair of carved tiger maple twin size pineapple poster beds USA, circa 1950s

Category

Mid-20th Century American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Maple

Philadelphia Mahogany Four Poster Tester Bed. Circa 1780

Sold

H 92 in W 80 in D 57.5 in

Philadelphia Mahogany Four Poster Tester Bed. Circa 1780

Located in Charleston, SC

American mahogany four poster tester bed with carved acanthus and tassel motif. Philadelphia, Late

Category

Antique 1780s American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Barbados Mahogany Four Poster Sunburst Tester Bed. Circa 1820

Sold

H 90 in W 81.5 in D 62 in

Barbados Mahogany Four Poster Sunburst Tester Bed. Circa 1820

Located in Charleston, SC

Barbados mahogany hand carved four poster tester bed with flanking scrolled sunburst head board

Category

Antique 1820s Bajan British Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany, Maple

18th C Style Alfonso Marina Cama Lombarda Four Poster Bed

Sold

H 87 in W 84 in D 90 in

18th C Style Alfonso Marina Cama Lombarda Four Poster Bed

By Alfonso Marina

Located in LOS ANGELES, CA

18th C Style Alfonso Marina Cama Lombarda Four Poster bed. It is a California King Bed and was hand

Category

Early 2000s American Spanish Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

American Mahogany King Size Four Poster Bed. Circa 1810

Sold

H 85 in W 76.25 in D 93.25 in

American Mahogany King Size Four Poster Bed. Circa 1810

Located in Charleston, SC

American mahogany King size four poster bed with acorn finial motif. Early 19th Century. The bed

Category

Antique 1810s American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Brass, Iron

Cassady Furniture Early American Style Cherry Queen Size Cannonball Poster Bed

Sold

H 54.25 in W 89.25 in D 64 in

Cassady Furniture Early American Style Cherry Queen Size Cannonball Poster Bed

Located in Dayton, OH

Cassdy Furniture Cannonball queen size bed. Made from American cherry in a classic colonial style

Category

Vintage 1980s American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Cherry

Alfonso Marina 18th C Style Cama Umbria Queen Poster Bed Frame

Sold

H 80 in W 70 in D 92 in

Alfonso Marina 18th C Style Cama Umbria Queen Poster Bed Frame

By Alfonso Marina

Located in LOS ANGELES, CA

Alfonso Marina 18th C Style Cama Umbria Queen Size 4 Poster bed frame.

Category

Early 2000s Mexican Spanish Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

Baker Furniture English Barley Twist Oak King Size Poster Bed

Sold

H 83.25 in W 84 in L 83.25 in

Baker Furniture English Barley Twist Oak King Size Poster Bed

By Baker Furniture Company

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous solid oak English barley twist king size four post bed frame By Baker Furniture

Category

Mid-20th Century American British Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Oak

Ralph Lauren Carved Four-Poster King-Size Bed in Solid Mahogany

Sold

H 89 in W 89.5 in D 90 in

Ralph Lauren Carved Four-Poster King-Size Bed in Solid Mahogany

By Ralph Lauren

Located in INTERLAKEN, NY

tobacco leaf motif in the British colonial style. These beds were highly sought-after in the 1990s

Category

20th Century Philippine British Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Ralph Lauren Signed Ornately Carved Mahogany Four Poster King Size Bed

Sold

H 89 in W 85 in L 89 in

Ralph Lauren Signed Ornately Carved Mahogany Four Poster King Size Bed

By Ralph Lauren

Located in West Hartford, CT

Ralph Lauren Furniture's most coveted bed, this mammoth four post beauty features intricate

Category

Early 20th Century American British Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

2 Antique Early American Country Twin Size Maple Ribbed Farmhouse Poster Beds

Sold

H 38 in W 42 in D 2.5 in

2 Antique Early American Country Twin Size Maple Ribbed Farmhouse Poster Beds

Located in Dayton, OH

Pair of Early American style twin size headboards. Made from maple with a crescent shaped back with ribbed spindles and turned posts. Dimensions: 38"h x 42" x 2.5"

Category

20th Century American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Maple

David T Smith Early American Style Curly Maple 4 Poster Queen Bed Frame

Sold

H 82 in W 66.5 in D 86.5 in

David T Smith Early American Style Curly Maple 4 Poster Queen Bed Frame

Located in Dayton, OH

Vintage David T Smith early American style four post queen bed frame. Made of curly maple

Category

Late 20th Century American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Maple

Baker Furniture Colonial Williamsburg Mahogany Queen Size 4 Poster Canopy Bed

Sold

H 96 in W 67 in D 86 in

Baker Furniture Colonial Williamsburg Mahogany Queen Size 4 Poster Canopy Bed

By Colonial Williamsburg Licensed Reproduction Co. 1, Baker Furniture Company

Located in Dayton, OH

A stately Colonial Williamsburg Four Poster Bed by Baker Furniture, Circa 1980s. Features a solid

Category

Vintage 1980s American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

British Colonial Four-Poster King-Size Bed in Faux Bamboo

Sold

H 80 in W 84 in D 84 in

British Colonial Four-Poster King-Size Bed in Faux Bamboo

By Baker Furniture Company

Located in Palm Beach, FL

Here the Classic four-poster faux bamboo bed is redefined with a casual elegance combined with the

Category

20th Century Philippine British Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

19th Century Queen Size British Colonial Style American Four-Poster Bed

Sold

H 94 in W 67 in D 89 in

19th Century Queen Size British Colonial Style American Four-Poster Bed

Located in INTERLAKEN, NY

A handsome four-poster bed in a faux bois (faux grain) finish resembling rosewood with beautifully

Category

Antique Late 19th Century American British Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

Primitive Early American Colonial Revival Pencil Post 4 Poster Queen Canopy Bed

Sold

H 87.5 in W 83 in D 66 in

Primitive Early American Colonial Revival Pencil Post 4 Poster Queen Canopy Bed

Located in Dayton, OH

20th century Colonial Revival pencil post. Made from pine with a canopy and finials.

Category

20th Century American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Pine

20th Century Vintage Early American Colonial Pine Pencil Post 4 Poster Full Bed

Sold

H 80 in W 60 in D 86 in

20th Century Vintage Early American Colonial Pine Pencil Post 4 Poster Full Bed

Located in Dayton, OH

Circa 1970s pine poster bed. Handmade by Jay Albers of the early American shop in Kettering Ohio

Category

Vintage 1970s American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Pine

Antique Early American Colonial Maple Jenny Lind Spool 4 Poster Full Canopy Bed

Sold

H 80 in W 53 in D 73.5 in

Antique Early American Colonial Maple Jenny Lind Spool 4 Poster Full Canopy Bed

Located in Dayton, OH

An impressive antique Jenny Lind rope / spool bed with canopy. Made from maple with turned and

Category

Antique 19th Century American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Maple

David T Smith Early American Colonial Queen Size Pencil Post 4 Poster Canopy Bed

Sold

H 85 in W 63 in D 81.5 in

David T Smith Early American Colonial Queen Size Pencil Post 4 Poster Canopy Bed

By David Smith

Located in Dayton, OH

Early American painted queen size pencil post canopy bed by David T Smith, circa 1987. A style

Category

Vintage 1980s American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Hardwood, Paint

French Colonial Four-Poster King Bed in West Indies Walnut, Haiti, circa 1830

Sold

H 77 in W 86 in D 86 in

French Colonial Four-Poster King Bed in West Indies Walnut, Haiti, circa 1830

Located in INTERLAKEN, NY

A very beautiful French Colonial bed in West Indies walnut with turned posts and paneled headboard

Category

Antique Early 19th Century North American Louis Philippe Beds and Bed Fr...

Materials

Walnut

Mahogany Twin Four Poster Beds - a Pair

Sold

H 58.75 in W 41.5 in D 81.5 in

Mahogany Twin Four Poster Beds - a Pair

Located in Bradenton, FL

A pair of colonial style four poster twin beds made of mahogany. Each bed frame has four turned and

Category

Early 20th Century American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Pair of Twin Mahogany Four-Poster Beds

Sold

H 67 in W 42 in D 3 in

Pair of Twin Mahogany Four-Poster Beds

Located in West Hartford, CT

Pair of antique mahogany twin four-poster beds with carved detail and removable finials. Includes

Category

Antique Late 19th Century American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

19th Century American Mahogany Rice Four-Poster Bed

Sold

H 71 in W 80 in D 56.5 in

19th Century American Mahogany Rice Four-Poster Bed

Located in Dallas, TX

Presenting a rare 19th century American mahogany rice four-poster bed. This is a 'full' sized bed

Category

Antique Late 19th Century American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Ralph Lauren Style Queen Size Carved Mahogany Poster Bed

Sold

H 90.5 in W 68.25 in D 90 in

Ralph Lauren Style Queen Size Carved Mahogany Poster Bed

By Ralph Lauren

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous carved mahogany four poster queen size bed In the manner of Ralph Lauren for Henredon

Category

Late 20th Century British Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Kindel Furniture Carved Mahogany Twin Size Poster Beds, Pair

Sold

H 55.25 in W 39.75 in D 81.75 in

Kindel Furniture Carved Mahogany Twin Size Poster Beds, Pair

By Kindel Furniture

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous pair of carved mahogany twin size poster beds By Kindel Furniture USA, circa 1950s

Category

Vintage 1950s American British Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Antique Provincial Spanish Four Poster Spindle Wood Bed, C1920

Sold

H 56.7 in W 59.26 in D 82.68 in

Antique Provincial Spanish Four Poster Spindle Wood Bed, C1920

Located in Trensacq, FR

Antique Provincial Spanish bed spindle turned wood, Circa 1920 Gorgeous early 20th-century Spanish

Category

Early 20th Century Spanish Spanish Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Fruitwood

Pair of Early 20th Century Spanish Majorcan Walnut Poster Beds

Sold

H 82.25 in W 40 in D 80.5 in

Pair of Early 20th Century Spanish Majorcan Walnut Poster Beds

Located in San Marino, CA

Pair of early 20th century Majorcan poster beds. Twin size. Plaques on bed date them to 1923

Category

Early 20th Century Spanish Spanish Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Walnut

Plantation Bed, Four Poster, Queen Size, of Solid Mahogany, circa 1850s

Sold

H 100 in W 88 in D 80 in

Plantation Bed, Four Poster, Queen Size, of Solid Mahogany, circa 1850s

Located in Madison, WI

Plantation four poster bed of solid mahogany, queen size. Circa 1850s. Substantial and extremely

Category

Antique 1850s American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Huntley Pineapple Posters Pine and Maple Full Size Bed, Circa 1940s

Sold

H 52.5 in W 57.5 in D 79 in

Huntley Pineapple Posters Pine and Maple Full Size Bed, Circa 1940s

By B. F. Huntley Co.

Located in Germantown, MD

Up for sale is a pretty nice vintage 4 poster pineapple full size bed made by B. F. Huntley

Category

Mid-20th Century American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Maple, Pine

Pair of Antique 4 Poster Mahogany Twin Single Acorn Pineapple Finial Bed Frames

Sold

H 48 in W 39 in D 80.5 in

Pair of Antique 4 Poster Mahogany Twin Single Acorn Pineapple Finial Bed Frames

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Pair of antique 4 poster mahogany twin single acorn pineapple finial bed frames. Item features

Category

Early 20th Century North American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Indian Bone and Teak Four-Poster Bed

Sold

H 107.5 in W 85 in D 65.5 in

Indian Bone and Teak Four-Poster Bed

Located in Hawthorne, CA

A very rare find of an Indian bone and teak four-poster queen sized bed platform with upholstered

Category

Mid-20th Century Indian British Colonial Furniture

Materials

Bone, Teak

Rare Colonial Four Poster Solid Ebony Bed

Sold

H 81 in W 72 in D 89 in

Rare Colonial Four Poster Solid Ebony Bed

Located in Richmond, CA

Rare Indo-Portuguese ebony bed with spiral turned posts, legs and head boards. Carving in the all

Category

Antique 19th Century Sri Lankan Anglo-Indian Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Brass

Colonial Rosewood Four-Poster Bed, 19th Century

Sold

H 84.26 in W 87.8 in D 74.81 in

Colonial Rosewood Four-Poster Bed, 19th Century

Located in Vigevano, IT

Indo-Portuguese bed. Made of precious rosewood with beautiful red shades. The structure and the

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century Indian Anglo-Indian Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Rosewood

Early 19th Century British Colonial Teak Four Poster Bed

Sold

H 80 in W 88 in D 61 in

Early 19th Century British Colonial Teak Four Poster Bed

Located in East Hampton, NY

A dramatic, very hard-to-find British Colonial Queen size bed with four turned posts and a

Category

Antique 19th Century Indian Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Teak

HENKEL HARRIS 111 24 Solid Wild Black Cherry Queen Poster Bed

Sold

H 66.25 in W 64.5 in D 87 in

HENKEL HARRIS 111 24 Solid Wild Black Cherry Queen Poster Bed

By Henkel Harris

Located in Charlotte, NC

A traditional style queen size poster bed by Henkel Harris of Winchester, Virginia, USA. Solid wild

Category

Late 20th Century American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Brass

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French Caned King Bed

$16,229 / item

H 73 in W 80.63 in D 85 in

French Caned King Bed

Located in Westwood, NJ

Featuring an ebonized, carved oak frame and an iconic Bonnet-style headboard, this bed radiates sophistication and elegance. The natural cane is meticulously woven on both sides of ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Vietnamese Neoclassical Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Cane, Wood

Kittinger Georgian Style Mahogany Twin Beds, Pair

On Hold|~~$3,500 / set~~

H 40 in W 42.5 in D 79.5 in

Kittinger Georgian Style Mahogany Twin Beds, Pair

By Kittinger Furniture Company

Located in Germantown, MD

A pair of Kittinger Georgian Style Mahogany Twin Beds in great vintage condition. Solid mahogany Bolt-on rails. Measures 42.5" in width, 79.5" in length and 40" in height at the tip...

Category

Late 20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Willem Penaat Art Deco Amsterdamse School Twin Beds for Metz & Co., 1920s

$4,537 / set

H 42.33 in W 77.56 in D 83.08 in

Willem Penaat Art Deco Amsterdamse School Twin Beds for Metz & Co., 1920s

By Metz & Co., Willem Penaat 1

Located in Amsterdam, NL

Magnificent and rare Art Deco Amsterdamse School twin beds. Design by Willem Penaat for Metz & Co. Amsterdam. Striking Dutch design from the 1920s. Solid oak frames and bedsides with...

Category

Vintage 1920s Dutch Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Oak

Pair of American Empire Barley Twist Mahogany Twin Bedsteads, Circa 1870s

$5,995 / set

H 54 in W 47 in D 81 in

Pair of American Empire Barley Twist Mahogany Twin Bedsteads, Circa 1870s

Located in Germantown, MD

A magnificent Pair of Mid 19th Century American Empire Barley Twist Mahogany X Twin Size Bedsteads, Circa 1870s. Featuring Barley twist footboard posts. Hand rub refinished. Measure ...

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century American American Empire Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Tetard Freres Perles Sterling Silver Flatware Set Service French 343 Pcs Dinner

$92,390 / set

H 12 in W 18 in D 18 in

Tetard Freres Perles Sterling Silver Flatware Set Service French 343 Pcs Dinner

By Tetard Freres

Located in Big Bend, WI

Founded in 1880 by Edmond Tétard (1860-1901) following the purchase of the house of Mr. Hugo. In 1889, he participated in the World Expo and received a Gold Medal. The house speciali...

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century French Art Deco Sterling Silver

Materials

Sterling Silver

Antique Full Size Iron Bed in White with Removable Wheels

$1,279Sale Price|20% Off

H 64 in W 54 in D 78 in

Antique Full Size Iron Bed in White with Removable Wheels

Located in Old Town Orange, CA

Antique Iron bed full size 54”w x 78”d x 64”h Footboard: 51”h White painted Finish with original wheels, can be removed if wanted. Original side rails that drop into place, no hardwa...

Category

Antique 19th Century Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Iron

English Country King Bed

$7,050 / item

H 80.5 in W 85.25 in D 88.5 in

English Country King Bed

Located in Westwood, NJ

An English Country style reclaimed oak veneered and mahogany tester King size bed, with an arched headboard and four turned columns on a paneled foot rail, on turned legs. Dimensi...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Vietnamese Country Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Oak

18th-19th Century Swedish Baroque Pinewood, Glass Bookcase, Antique Showcase

$22,900

H 87.75 in W 66.5 in D 18.5 in

18th-19th Century Swedish Baroque Pinewood, Glass Bookcase, Antique Showcase

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

A light-grey, antique large Swedish Baroque two-part bookcase made of hand crafted painted Pinewood, in good condition. The upper part of the detailed Scandinavian library, showcase ...

Category

Antique Late 18th Century Swedish Baroque Bookcases

Materials

Metal, Chrome

Antique Sterling Silver Canteen of Cutlery for Twelve Persons

$31,239

H 0.5 in Dm 9 in

Antique Sterling Silver Canteen of Cutlery for Twelve Persons

By Viners 1

Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne

A magnificent, fine and impressive, comprehensive antique George V English sterling silver Sandringham pattern flatware service for twelve persons - boxed; an addition to our canteen...

Category

20th Century English Georgian Tableware

Materials

Silver, Sterling Silver

Louis Solid Oak French Carved King Size Bed Upholstered in Natural Linen

$5,690 / item

H 52.5 in W 76.5 in D 80 in

Louis Solid Oak French Carved King Size Bed Upholstered in Natural Linen

By Bloom Home Inc

Located in Old Town Orange, CA

Meet our stunning King French Oak Bed, a beautifully replicated Louis XVI bed made from white oak with meticulous attention to detail. Each intricate carving is embellished with love...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Louis XVI Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Linen, Oak

Vintage Regency Rice Poster King Size Bed

$5,950

H 89 in W 86.25 in D 88.5 in

Vintage Regency Rice Poster King Size Bed

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

Step into a realm of timeless elegance with this vintage Hollywood Regency carved rice poster king size bed. This magnificent piece, likely from the mid to late 20th century, exudes ...

Category

Late 20th Century American Regency Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

Biggs Virginia Mahogany Pineapple 3/4 Twin Beds, Pair

$2,500 / set

H 48 in W 46 in D 3 in

Biggs Virginia Mahogany Pineapple 3/4 Twin Beds, Pair

By Biggs Furniture

Located in Germantown, MD

A pair of Biggs Virginia Furniture Mahogany Pineapple 3/4 Twin Beds, Pair. Include in listing are a pair of Headboards, a pair of Footboards. Finish on all sides. The bolt-on bedrail...

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Antique Renaissance Victorian Hand Carved Black Walnut Full Size Bed Frame

$3,995

H 69 in W 52 in D 77 in

Antique Renaissance Victorian Hand Carved Black Walnut Full Size Bed Frame

By Charles Locke Eastlake

Located in Chicago, IL

Antique Renaissance Victorian Hand Carved Black Walnut Full Size Bed Frame by Eastlake Gorgeous Victorian black walnut, finely hand carved full Size bed frame by Eastlake. The 2 sid...

Category

Antique Late 19th Century American Renaissance Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Walnut

Niermann Weeks "Louis XVI" King Size Canopy Bed With Upholstered Headboard

$19,500

H 91.75 in W 85 in D 88.5 in

Niermann Weeks "Louis XVI" King Size Canopy Bed With Upholstered Headboard

By Niermann Weeks

Located in Bridgeport, CT

*Frame only; boxspring, mattress and bedding NOT included. The Classic Niermann Weeks French style Canopy Bed. Their fine French style king size bed in a walnut finish with gilt de...

Category

20th Century Neoclassical Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

Antique Victorian Carved Oak Full Size Bed, circa 1890s

$2,295

H 50.5 in W 56.5 in D 77 in

Antique Victorian Carved Oak Full Size Bed, circa 1890s

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous antique Victorian carved oak full size bed frame USA, Circa 1890s Measures: 56.5"W x 77"D. Headboard: 50.5"H. Footboard: 31.75"H. Very good original vintage condi...

Category

Antique Late 19th Century American Victorian Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Oak

Early 1900's Chippendale Mahogany Four-Drawer Commode Chest of Drawers

$1,995

H 35.25 in W 43 in D 20.5 in

Early 1900's Chippendale Mahogany Four-Drawer Commode Chest of Drawers

Located in Germantown, MD

A beautiful and patinated Early 1900's Chippendale genuine Mahogany commode chest of drawers in good condition. Beautiful mahogany grain. Dovetail drawers construction with patinated...

Category

Early 20th Century American Chippendale Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Materials

Mahogany

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Colonial Poster Bed For Sale on 1stDibs

Find many varieties of an authentic colonial poster bed available at 1stDibs. Frequently made of wood, mahogany and hardwood, every colonial poster bed was constructed with great care. There are many kinds of the colonial poster bed you’re looking for, from those produced as long ago as the 18th Century to those made as recently as the 20th Century. A colonial poster bed, designed in the style, is generally a popular piece of furniture. A well-made colonial poster bed has long been a part of the offerings for many furniture designers and manufacturers, but those produced by Baker Furniture Company, Ralph Lauren and David Smith are consistently popular.

Finding the Right Beds-frames for You

We find relaxation and solace in our bedrooms, which are often the most cherished rooms of a home. Your antique, new or vintage bed and bed frame are integral to this oasis of personal comfort.

Beds and bed frames have long been an important part of the sanctuary that is the bedroom. For the upper class in countries such as England, the massive, costly beds of the 16th and 17th centuries were decorative and of the poster variety. Some were characterized by large painted wooden headboards, often made of oak, that featured ornate carvings and richly colored curtains affixed to each of the two or four posts — think of today’s sumptuous upholstered headboards as a distant cousin to these luxurious furnishings. The heavy fabric curtains were drawn across a fringed canopy to close out the sunlight that might’ve warmed your grandiose and opulent bedchambers. This feature could also offer privacy as desired, because, as we all know, a bedroom is for more than just sleeping.

Coiled springs didn’t make their way into mattresses until the 1800s, which likely made for a far more comfortable night’s sleep for many. Bed frames of cast iron and brass were introduced during the mid- to late-19th century. Later, the 20th century brought with it marvelous innovations for slumberland, among them daybeds from the likes of George Nelson and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Lilly Reich as well as convertible sofa beds.

Today, you will find a range of beds geared toward your individual personality and preferred style of decor. When shopping for a bed and bed frame, keep in mind that you’ve got options. Sizes range from twin to California king. At 76 inches wide and 80 inches long, a king-size bed is roughly 16 inches wider than a queen-size mattress, and your bed frame will likely add two to five inches to each side. (The California king bed is 84 inches long.)

From dramatic bedroom designs to uncomplicated, minimalist approaches, the bedroom has evolved into the haven that it should be: a peaceful place of respite, where we begin and end every day. Take the time to create your very own oasis — you deserve it. Rest easy with an expansive collection of antique, new and vintage beds and bed frames available on 1stDibs.

Questions About Colonial Poster Bed

Why were colonial beds so high?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Colonial beds are so high to avoid cool drafts that were close to the ground. Typically, the higher the bed off the ground, the closer it would be to the warmer air.
What is the difference between a canopy bed and a four poster bed?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A four poster bed features four posts, one at each corner. A canopy bed also has four posts, one at each corner, but a canopy bed is covered with a cloth of some sort. They can look similar except for the canopy on top. However, canopy posts are often built differently than four poster beds so they can accommodate the fabric. Shop a collection of four poster and canopy beds from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
Is it a four-post bed or four-poster bed?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
References show that in the 14th and 15th centuries, “four-post” was the correct terminology. However, today it is considered correct to say “four-poster”. You can find a range of vintage and antique four-poster beds from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
What is the point of a four-poster bed?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Today, the point of a four-poster bed is largely stylistic. People place them in bedrooms due to their elegant decorative appearance. Historically, four-poster beds featured heavy curtains that blocked light, preserved privacy and provided warmth in the winter. You'll find a selection of four-poster beds on 1stDibs.
What is a tester on a four poster bed?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
The tester on a four poster bed is the canopy over the bed. It was usually made of wood and could be covered with cloth. It provided privacy and helped enclose the bed, making it easier to heat the bed area. On 1stDibs, find an array of vintage and contemporary four-poster beds.
What is the top of a four-poster bed called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Across the top of older four-poster beds was a wooden rail that was called the tester. The tester often held a rail where curtains were attached that could be pulled closed. Shop a collection of four-poster beds from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
How do I make a four-poster bed modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
You can make a four-poster bed modern in a number of ways. Try refinishing it with matte spray paint or covering the headboard with fabric or wallpaper. You can also hang fabric in contemporary prints from the frame as a canopy. You'll find a collection of four-poster beds on 1stDibs.

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