How do I identify early American furniture?

To identify early American furniture, you can evaluate your piece on your own or seek the opinion of a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer. Although many pieces from the Colonial era are unmarked, double-checking your furniture for signatures, stamps and labels is still a good first step. Using trusted online resources, you can research any markings to determine if the maker was active in America during the 16th and early 17th centuries. When identifying unmarked furniture, it's generally necessary to consider the style and details of the piece. Due to its handcrafted origins, early American furniture tends to have visible tool marks and irregularities in its carvings. Early American furnishings tended to be simple in style but often had one or two refined details, such as cabriole legs. Looking at images of authentic early American furniture can be helpful when making an identification. On 1stDibs, find a collection of 18th-century American furniture.

What is the early American furniture style called?

The early American furniture style is often called the Colonial style. During the 17th century, American craftsmen drew inspiration from medieval and Renaissance furniture. By the 18th century, the William and Mary style that had emerged in England began to heavily influence the American Colonial style. Characteristics of Colonial-style furniture include turned legs, ornamental carvings and richly finished cherry, walnut and mahogany wood. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Colonial-style furniture.

Early American Bed

Colonial Canopy Bed

Jenny Lind Spool Bed

19th Century Four Poster Bed

Antique Mahogany Beds Full Size

Early American Style Bobbin Maple Day Bed

$2,300

H 32 in W 33 in D 80.5 in

Early American Style Bobbin Maple Day Bed

Located in Germantown, MD

Early American Style Bobbin Maple Thirty Three Inch ( 33") Day Bed. Measures 80.5" in width, 33

Category

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

Materials

Maple

Great Early 19th Century American Federal Four Poster Bed and Nightstand

$12,760

H 81.89 in W 83.27 in D 56.7 in

Great Early 19th Century American Federal Four Poster Bed and Nightstand

Located in Rio De Janeiro, BR

Presenting a beautifully crafted early 19th-century American Federal Four Poster Bed, an exquisite

Category

Antique Early 19th Century North American Federal Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

Neoclassical Federal-Style Twin Bed Frame

$676Sale Price|20% Off

H 43 in W 41 in D 81 in

Neoclassical Federal-Style Twin Bed Frame

By Dixie

Located in Trenton, NJ

with a strong sense of symmetry and proportion, the bed blends the formality of early American style

Category

20th Century Unknown Neoclassical Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Metal

Mid Century Early American Style Cherry Full Size Cannonball Poster Bed

$1,050Sale Price|30% Off

H 44.5 in W 57 in D 83 in

Mid Century Early American Style Cherry Full Size Cannonball Poster Bed

Located in Dayton, OH

Mid century Early American style full size cherry cannonball poster bed. Circa 1962. 607-581

Category

Mid-20th Century American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Cherry

Stickley Brothers Antique Early American floral Painted Twin Beds, Circa 1920s

$2,995 / set

H 47.25 in W 42 in D 80.5 in

Stickley Brothers Antique Early American floral Painted Twin Beds, Circa 1920s

By Stickley Brothers

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous pair of American Colonial or Country Cottage style twin beds By Stickley Brothers USA

Category

Vintage 1920s American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Maple, Paint

Pair of American 19th Century Grain Painted Cannonball Twin Beds

$4,800 / set

H 47 in W 41.5 in D 41.5 in

Pair of American 19th Century Grain Painted Cannonball Twin Beds

Located in Essex, MA

Pair of American Federal Grain Painted and Decorated Twin Cannonball Beds. Most likely Maine

Category

Antique Early 19th Century American Federal Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Maple

Pair American Sheraton Mahogany Twin Beds with Fancy Scalloping & Turned Posts

$2,850 / set

H 56 in W 40 in D 81.5 in

Pair American Sheraton Mahogany Twin Beds with Fancy Scalloping & Turned Posts

Located in Savannah, GA

This handsome pair of twin mahogany American Sheraton style beds features multiple turnings of the

Category

Early 20th Century American Sheraton Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Classical American Federal Gondola Sleigh Bed in Mahogany, Philadelphia, c. 1830

$12,500

H 51.5 in W 93 in D 54 in

Classical American Federal Gondola Sleigh Bed in Mahogany, Philadelphia, c. 1830

Located in INTERLAKEN, NY

An exquisite classical American gondola sleigh bed in fine West Indies mahogany from the Federal

Category

Antique Early 19th Century American Federal Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Antique American 4 Poster Acanthus Carved Southern Bed in Mahogany, c. 1820

$15,500

H 86 in W 85.5 in D 74 in

Antique American 4 Poster Acanthus Carved Southern Bed in Mahogany, c. 1820

Located in INTERLAKEN, NY

Period Antique Federal American 4 poster bed in West Indies mahogany, c. 1820. A fine example of a

Category

Antique Early 19th Century American Federal Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Arts and Crafts Painted Full Size Bed Headboard

$1,200

H 58.5 in W 57 in D 2.5 in

Arts and Crafts Painted Full Size Bed Headboard

Located in Sheffield, MA

An American Victorian period Arts & Crafts style bed. This full size double walnut headboard

Category

Early 20th Century North American Late Victorian Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

19th Century American Empire Carved Swan Mahogany Sleigh Daybed

$2,440

H 34.75 in W 33 in D 82 in

19th Century American Empire Carved Swan Mahogany Sleigh Daybed

Located in Germantown, MD

19th Century American Empire Carved Swan Mahogany Sleigh Daybed Circa First Quarter 19th Century

Category

Antique Early 19th Century American American Empire Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Pair 19th C. Early American Walnut Converted Semi-Poster Twin Rope Bedframe

$3,995 / set

H 47 in W 42 in D 80 in

Pair 19th C. Early American Walnut Converted Semi-Poster Twin Rope Bedframe

Located in Germantown, MD

A refurbisehd Pair of 19th Century Early American Style Walnut Twin Rope Bedframes. Ropes were

Category

Antique 19th Century American Victorian Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Walnut

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

Pair of 1900s American Empire Flame Mahogany Twin Size Headboards w/ Fretworks

$1,995 / set

H 40.5 in W 40 in D 2.5 in

Pair of 1900s American Empire Flame Mahogany Twin Size Headboards w/ Fretworks

Located in Germantown, MD

Beautifully handcrafted American Empire flame mahogany twin size headboards with top fretwork. In

Category

Early 20th Century American Edwardian Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

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 width and 76" in height to the top of the finials. 46.5" in Height to the top of t...

Category

Early 20th Century American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

1900s Mariner's Compass Antique American Bed Quilt 8'9''x10' Americana Folk Art

$3,640Sale Price|30% Off

H 120 in W 105 in D 0.25 in

1900s Mariner's Compass Antique American Bed Quilt 8'9''x10' Americana Folk Art

Located in New York, NY

Early 20th Century American Bed Quilt ( 8'9'' x 10' - 267 x 305 ) This unique textile presents a

Category

Antique Early 1900s American Other Quilts and Blankets

Materials

Wool

Measure 1920's Overbed Hospital Bed Bedside Table

$3,500

H 32 in W 46.5 in D 19 in

Measure 1920's Overbed Hospital Bed Bedside Table

Located in Sheffield, MA

laptop cart, computer or a rolling desk dart. Or use it for its original purpose, a hospital bed table

Category

Early 20th Century North American Art Deco Night Stands

Materials

Iron

Recent Sales

American Federal Four Poster Mahogany King-Size Bed, Early 19th Century

Unavailable

H 91 in W 77.5 in D 88.25 in

American Federal Four Poster Mahogany King-Size Bed, Early 19th Century

Located in Charleston, SC

This elegant New York poster bed has some of the finest hand carving and delicate details making it

Category

Antique Early 19th Century American Federal Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Poplar, Mahogany

Pair of Antique American Maple Twin Beds

Unavailable

H 39 in W 43 in D 82 in

Pair of Antique American Maple Twin Beds

Located in Livingston, NJ

Unique pair of American Maple twin beds. The set includes 2 headboards, 2 foot boards with side

Category

Early 20th Century North American Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Oak

18th Century American Southern Tall Post Walnut Bed, Resized to Queen-Size

Unavailable

H 91 in W 64 in D 89 in

18th Century American Southern Tall Post Walnut Bed, Resized to Queen-Size

Located in New York, NY

Walnut tall post bed with simple arched headboard and slender round tapering posts terminating in

Category

Antique 18th Century and Earlier American Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Brass

Highly Carved Classical Mahogany Four Poster Bed, Massachusetts, circa 1820

Unavailable

H 92 in W 60 in D 82 in

Highly Carved Classical Mahogany Four Poster Bed, Massachusetts, circa 1820

Located in Providence, RI

Peace. Deaccessioned from New Bedford Whaling Museum. This bed is composed of heavy, dense mahogany

Category

Antique Early 19th Century American American Classical Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

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

Early 20th Century Full Size Spool Turned Bed Frame in Early American Style

Sold

H 44.5 in W 53 in D 75 in

Early 20th Century Full Size Spool Turned Bed Frame in Early American Style

Located in Morristown, NJ

Early 20th C. spool turned Full bed frame in early American style. The wood has a lovely patina and

Category

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

Materials

Wood, Paint

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

Antique Early 20th C. Georgian Sheraton American Mahogany Full Size Poster Bed

Sold

H 59 in W 81 in D 59 in

Antique Early 20th C. Georgian Sheraton American Mahogany Full Size Poster Bed

Located in Dayton, OH

Early 20th century Georgian style poster bed. Made from mahogany with beautiful matchbook veneer

Category

Early 20th Century Sheraton 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

Category

20th Century American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Maple

Mid Century Early American Style Cherry Rike Kumler Co Cannonball Full Bed

Sold

H 39 in W 82 in L 39 in

Mid Century Early American Style Cherry Rike Kumler Co Cannonball Full Bed

Located in Dayton, OH

"Mid century Rike-Kumler Cannonball bed. Made of cherry featuring Early American styling with

Category

Mid-20th Century American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Cherry

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

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

American Federal Style Mahogany King Size Four-Poster Bed

Sold

H 89 in W 83.25 in L 89 in

American Federal Style Mahogany King Size Four-Poster Bed

Located in Southampton, NY

American Federal style mahogany king size four-poster bed. Carved and Reeded four-poster bed with

Category

Antique Early 19th Century American Federal Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Birch, Mahogany

Antique Victorian Walnut Jenny Lind Spool Bed Youth American Country Spindle

Sold

H 30 in W 34.5 in D 77 in

Antique Victorian Walnut Jenny Lind Spool Bed Youth American Country Spindle

Located in Dayton, OH

American country bed jenny lind bed. Made from walnut with spool turned posts and spindles

Category

Early 20th Century Victorian Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Walnut

Antique American Walnut Jenny Lind Style Federal Spool Full Size Post Bed

Sold

H 57.5 in W 82.5 in D 57 in

Antique American Walnut Jenny Lind Style Federal Spool Full Size Post Bed

Located in Dayton, OH

Early 1900s American walnut Jenny Lind / Federal style full size bed. Features ribbed / spooled

Category

Early 20th Century Federal Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Walnut

Antique 19th Century American Sheraton Mahogany Full Size Rope Acorn Poster Bed

Sold

H 49 in W 59 in D 82 in

Antique 19th Century American Sheraton Mahogany Full Size Rope Acorn Poster Bed

Located in Dayton, OH

Early 19th century Sheraton Period poster bed. Made from mahogany with hand turned posts and acorn

Category

Antique Early 19th Century Sheraton Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

American Maple Full Size Tester Bed with Canopy, circa 1930

Sold

H 81.5 in W 79.5 in D 60 in

American Maple Full Size Tester Bed with Canopy, circa 1930

Located in Savannah, GA

American maple full size tester bed with canopy, circa 1930. Mattress and bedding not included.

Category

Early 20th Century American Beds and Bed Frames

American Federal California King-Size, Four-Poster Bed, circa 1810

Sold

H 109.5 in W 93.75 in D 72 in

American Federal California King-Size, Four-Poster Bed, circa 1810

Located in INTERLAKEN, NY

A stunning southern four-poster bed in very fine mahogany with carved tobacco & acanthus leaf

Category

Antique Early 19th Century American Federal Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Early American Style Carved Maple Queen Size Spindle Headboard

Sold

H 45.5 in W 64.25 in D 2.5 in

Early American Style Carved Maple Queen Size Spindle Headboard

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous Early American or Shaker style carved maple queen size spindle headboard USA, Late 20th

Category

Late 20th Century American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Maple

Vintage Boho Queen Sleigh Bed

Sold

H 92 in W 64 in L 92 in

Vintage Boho Queen Sleigh Bed

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

Gorgeous vintage Queen sleigh bed. Beautiful high sides and beautiful wood grain detail. Acquired

Category

Early 20th Century North American Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

19th-20th Century Brass Bed Frame, Full Sized

Sold

H 61 in W 37.5 in L 61 in

19th-20th Century Brass Bed Frame, Full Sized

Located in Manhasset, NY

19th-20th century brass bed frame. Full sized early 20th century frame that is strong and sturdy

Category

Early 20th Century American Classical Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Metal, Brass

Fine Condition Bronze-Mounted Empire Bed Pair

Sold

H 45 in W 84 in D 45.25 in

Fine Condition Bronze-Mounted Empire Bed Pair

Located in Bridgeport, CT

An outstanding pair of period Empire bronze-mounted beds in overall excellent condition. The

Category

Antique Early 19th Century American American Empire Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Bronze

Antique Birdseye Maple Full Size Bed, circa 1900

Sold

H 49.63 in W 56.5 in D 78.38 in

Antique Birdseye Maple Full Size Bed, circa 1900

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous antique bird’s-eye maple full size bed. USA, circa 1900 Measures: 56.5" W x 78.38

Category

Early 20th Century American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Birdseye Maple

French King Size Faux Bamboo Bed with Grass Cloth Headboard

Sold

H 58 in W 75 in D 87 in

French King Size Faux Bamboo Bed with Grass Cloth Headboard

Located in Los Angeles, CA

King size faux bamboo bed - a wonderfully designed colonial style bed - perfect compliment to any

Category

Early 20th Century American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

Antique Berkey & Gay School Second Empire Carved Flame Mahogany Poster Bed c1920

Sold

H 91.25 in W 60 in D 85.5 in

Antique Berkey & Gay School Second Empire Carved Flame Mahogany Poster Bed c1920

By Berkey & Gay Furniture

Located in Big Flats, NY

An antique American Second Empire poster double/full size bed in the manner of Berkey and Gay

Category

Early 20th Century American American Empire Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Bonnin Ashley Custom Made Cannonball Bed, Queen, Full and Twin Available

Sold

H 60 in W 57 in D 82.5 in

Bonnin Ashley Custom Made Cannonball Bed, Queen, Full and Twin Available

By Bonnin Ashley

Located in INTERLAKEN, NY

Custom cannonball bed inspired by an early 19th century American bed in our inventory. Fabricated

Category

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

Materials

Poplar

Antique Federal Period Solid Tiger Maple Cannonball Bed c. 1830

Sold

H 50 in W 56 in D 86 in

Antique Federal Period Solid Tiger Maple Cannonball Bed c. 1830

Located in Westfield, MA

example of early American craftsmanship. The bed is made from rich tiger maple, which showcases its

Category

Antique 1830s American Federal Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Maple

Antique Primitive Early American Miniature Salesman Sample Walnut Doll Bed

Sold

H 7 in W 11 in L 7 in

Antique Primitive Early American Miniature Salesman Sample Walnut Doll Bed

Located in Dayton, OH

Antique Primitive early American miniature salesman sample walnut bed with two pillows. Measures

Category

Antique 19th Century American Classical Models and Miniatures

Materials

Walnut

American Scrolled-Back Twin Size Poster Bed, Early 20th Century

Sold

H 48.63 in W 80.25 in D 41.5 in

American Scrolled-Back Twin Size Poster Bed, Early 20th Century

Located in Southampton, NY

American scrolled-back twin size poster bed, early 20th century. Turned and rounded ball posts

Category

Antique Early 19th Century American Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Antique Early 1900s American Victorian Revival Brass Full Size Bed Frame

Sold

H 56.5 in W 56 in D 83 in

Antique Early 1900s American Victorian Revival Brass Full Size Bed Frame

Located in Dayton, OH

Early 20th Century Brass Full Size Bed. Features American Victorian styling with spindled posts

Category

Early 20th Century American Victorian Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Brass

2 Mid Century Early American Georgetown Galleries Solid Cherry Twin Post Beds

Sold

H 39.5 in W 43 in D 82 in

2 Mid Century Early American Georgetown Galleries Solid Cherry Twin Post Beds

Located in Dayton, OH

"Pair of mid century Georgetown Galleries early American style solid cherry twin bed frames sold by

Category

Mid-20th Century American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Cherry

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

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

American Victorian Polychromed Full Bed

Sold

H 80.5 in W 57 in D 75 in

American Victorian Polychromed Full Bed

Located in Queens, NY

American Victorian (Early 20th Century) grained, polychromed & floral painted full size bed

Category

Early 20th Century American Victorian Beds and Bed Frames

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

American Federal Four Post Maple Bed

Sold

H 81 in W 53 in D 82 in

American Federal Four Post Maple Bed

Located in Huntington, NY

American four post maple bed, with headboard 4 carved posts & 2 rails mounted with brackets for

Category

Antique Early 19th Century American Federal Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Maple

Late 19th Century Early American Style Semi Post Pine Full Size Bed

Sold

H 61 in W 60.5 in D 85 in

Late 19th Century Early American Style Semi Post Pine Full Size Bed

Located in Germantown, MD

Late 19th Century Early American Style Pine Full Size Bed. Meaures 81" in lenght, 56" in width and

Category

Antique Late 19th Century American Edwardian Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Pine

American Empire Four Poster Bed with Acanthus Carvings, circa 1820

Sold

H 79.5 in W 56.5 in D 79.25 in

American Empire Four Poster Bed with Acanthus Carvings, circa 1820

Located in INTERLAKEN, NY

A very finely carved American Empire four poster bed. At the top of each post is a carved pineapple

Category

Antique Early 19th Century American American Empire Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany, Poplar, Hardwood

Antique Semi-Post American Federal Twin Beds, Circa 1910s

Sold

H 48.28 in W 82 in D 40 in

Antique Semi-Post American Federal Twin Beds, Circa 1910s

Located in Southampton, NJ

An impressive pair of Antique Tiger Maple semi four post twin size beds with striking hand carved

Category

Early 20th Century American Federal Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Bronze

2 Antique American Federal Style Carved Mahogany Twin Cannonball Poster Bed Pair

Sold

H 50 in W 83.5 in D 40.5 in

2 Antique American Federal Style Carved Mahogany Twin Cannonball Poster Bed Pair

Located in Dayton, OH

Pair of early 20th century twin size Cannonball beds. Features a solid mahogany frame with barley

Category

Early 20th Century Federal Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

American Four Poster "Field" Bed w/ Arched Canopy, Carved & Turned Posts, c 1815

Sold

H 82.5 in W 78.25 in D 55.24 in

American Four Poster "Field" Bed w/ Arched Canopy, Carved & Turned Posts, c 1815

Located in INTERLAKEN, NY

A handsome bed made of maple wood that is stained and painted, and called a "field" bedstead

Category

Antique Early 19th Century American American Empire Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Maple

Kindel Oxford Mahogany Semi-Post American Empire Twin Beds, Circa 1930s

Sold

H 48 in W 40 in D 79 in

Kindel Oxford Mahogany Semi-Post American Empire Twin Beds, Circa 1930s

By Kindel Furniture

Located in Germantown, MD

Exceptional pair of Kindel Oxford mahogany semi-post twin bedframe in good vintage condition. Circa 1930s. Measure 40"W x 39.5"H (48" to the semi post finials) . Footboard is 28.5"H...

Category

Early 20th Century American Federal Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

Early 20th Century American Empire Mahogany Semi-Post Twin Bedframes, a Pair

Sold

H 38 in W 44.25 in D 83.25 in

Early 20th Century American Empire Mahogany Semi-Post Twin Bedframes, a Pair

Located in Germantown, MD

Beautiful pair of turn of early 20th century American colonial twin bedframes. Very good antique

Category

Early 20th Century American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

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

grain, nicely carved details, very nice antique item, quality American craftsmanship, circa early 1900s

Category

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

Materials

Mahogany

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

Renaissance Revival Burl Walnut Full Size French Bed, circa 1910s

Sold

H 50.5 in W 57.5 in D 81 in

Renaissance Revival Burl Walnut Full Size French Bed, circa 1910s

Located in Germantown, MD

This is a full size vintage renaissance French bed. Circa 1920s by the famous Phenix Furniture of

Category

Early 20th Century North American Renaissance Revival Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Walnut, Burl

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

Pair of Bonnin Ashley Custom-Made Full-Size Cannonball Beds in Mahogany

Sold

H 60 in W 82.5 in D 57 in

Pair of Bonnin Ashley Custom-Made Full-Size Cannonball Beds in Mahogany

Located in INTERLAKEN, NY

A pair of custom cannonball beds inspired by an early 19th century American bed in our stock. Built

Category

2010s American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

American Classical Colonial Style Maple Full Size Bedstead

Sold

H 38 in W 56 in D 80.5 in

American Classical Colonial Style Maple Full Size Bedstead

Located in Germantown, MD

An American classical colonial style maple full size bedstead in good vintage condition. Measure

Category

Early 20th Century American American Colonial Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Hardwood, Maple

Henkel Harris Black Cherry Spindle Twin Headboards, A Pair

Sold

H 37.5 in W 40.25 in D 1.75 in

Henkel Harris Black Cherry Spindle Twin Headboards, A Pair

By Henkel Harris

Located in Germantown, MD

Beautiful pair of Henkel Harris Black Cherry Spindle Twin Headboards. Very good vintage condition. Rare to come by item. Measures 40.25"W x 37.5"H W4.

Category

Early 20th Century American American Classical Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Cherry

Early 20th Century American Iron Prison Bed

Sold

H 33 in W 77.5 in D 28 in

Early 20th Century American Iron Prison Bed

Located in Santa Monica, CA

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Antique American Federal Sheraton Curly Tiger Maple Bed Side Table Nightstand

Sold

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Located in Dayton, OH

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Early American Rope Bed

Sold

H 28.75 in W 74 in D 21 in

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Located in San Francisco, CA

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H 78 in W 78 in D 60 in

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Located in Vancouver, BC

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Located in Scarsdale, NY

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Early 20th Century American Beds and Bed Frames

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Early American Bed For Sale on 1stDibs

Find many varieties of an authentic early American bed available at 1stDibs. Frequently made of wood, mahogany and hardwood, every early American bed was constructed with great care. There are many kinds of the early American bed you’re looking for, from those produced as long ago as the 19th Century to those made as recently as the 20th Century. An early American bed made by Neoclassical designers — as well as those associated with Victorian — is very popular. Many designers have produced at least one well-made early American bed over the years, but those crafted by David Smith and Union Furniture Co. are often thought to be among the most beautiful.

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 Early American Bed

How do I identify early American furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
To identify early American furniture, you can evaluate your piece on your own or seek the opinion of a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer. Although many pieces from the Colonial era are unmarked, double-checking your furniture for signatures, stamps and labels is still a good first step. Using trusted online resources, you can research any markings to determine if the maker was active in America during the 16th and early 17th centuries. When identifying unmarked furniture, it's generally necessary to consider the style and details of the piece. Due to its handcrafted origins, early American furniture tends to have visible tool marks and irregularities in its carvings. Early American furnishings tended to be simple in style but often had one or two refined details, such as cabriole legs. Looking at images of authentic early American furniture can be helpful when making an identification. On 1stDibs, find a collection of 18th-century American furniture.
What is the early American furniture style called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
The early American furniture style is often called the Colonial style. During the 17th century, American craftsmen drew inspiration from medieval and Renaissance furniture. By the 18th century, the William and Mary style that had emerged in England began to heavily influence the American Colonial style. Characteristics of Colonial-style furniture include turned legs, ornamental carvings and richly finished cherry, walnut and mahogany wood. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Colonial-style furniture.

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