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 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.

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.

Painted Four Poster Bed

Italian Queen Bed

King Wood Bed Frame Antique

Palm Bed

Patina Painted Furniture Italy

Gustavian Cream Painted Four Poster Bed, US King

$7,470 / item

Gustavian Cream Painted Four Poster Bed, US King

Located in Westwood, NJ

A Modern Gustavian Cream Painted Four Poster Bed. A wonderful combination of antique Gustavian design and modern details.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Vietnamese Gustavian Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

Gustavian Grey Painted Four Poster Bed, US King

$7,770 / item

Gustavian Grey Painted Four Poster Bed, US King

Located in Westwood, NJ

A Modern Gustavian Grey Painted Four Poster Bed. A wonderful combination of antique Gustavian design and modern details.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Vietnamese Gustavian Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

Gustavian Grey Painted Four Poster Bed, US Queen

$7,470 / item

Gustavian Grey Painted Four Poster Bed, US Queen

Located in Westwood, NJ

A Modern Gustavian Grey Painted Four Poster Bed. Queen Size. A wonderful combination of antique Gustavian design and modern details.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Vietnamese Gustavian Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

Roma Ivory King Size Bed

$24,080 / item

Roma Ivory King Size Bed

By Porte Italia

Located in Milan, IT

Presenting the stunning Roma Bed, a symbol of romance and enduring beauty. This hand-painted four-poster bed in ivory, adorned with elegant framings and delicate rosettes, is designe...

Category

2010s Italian Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

Carved 'Limestone' Painted Four Poster King Size Bed

$10,527 / item

Carved 'Limestone' Painted Four Poster King Size Bed

Located in Westwood, NJ

A finely carved mahogany and 'limestone' painted four-poster king-size bed, the serpentine arched and molded edge headboard flanked by acanthus leaf and rice carved baluster turned p...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Vietnamese Chippendale Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

John Dickinson ‘Twig’ King Size Four Poster Bed

$76,000Sale Price|20% Off

John Dickinson ‘Twig’ King Size Four Poster Bed

By John Dickinson

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

John Dickinson ‘Twig’ King Size Four Poster Bed John Dickinson (1919–1982) USA, circa 1970’s Two King Beds available A masterwork by John Dickinson (1919–1982), The 'Twig' four post...

Category

20th Century American Modern Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Plaster, Wood, Paint

Queen Hale Navy Painted Maple Cannonball Four Poster Bed with Flat Headboard

$4,510 / item

Queen Hale Navy Painted Maple Cannonball Four Poster Bed with Flat Headboard

Located in Tiverton, RI

The Classic cannonball bed features the favorite round ball top bed posts with a merry cut-out flat headboard. This timeless Classic is perfect for guest rooms and children's rooms. ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American American Classical Beds and Bed F...

Materials

Wood

21st C. Silvered Reeded Four Poster Bed, Modern Neoclassical/Regency Influences

$3,550

21st C. Silvered Reeded Four Poster Bed, Modern Neoclassical/Regency Influences

Located in Morristown, NJ

A contemporary four-poster bed defined by strong vertical articulation and restrained decorative detailing.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Neoclassical Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood, Paint

Recent Sales

Italian Carved Four Poster Bed

Unavailable

H 91 in W 70.5 in D 95 in

Italian Carved Four Poster Bed

Located in Chicago, IL

This piece probably dates from the early 1900’s and incorporates earlier elements. The beautifully carved headboard pediment features scrolled elements surrounding a center crown. ...

Category

20th Century Unknown Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Pine, Paint

Gustavian Cream Painted Four Poster Bed - Queen

Sold

H 91 in W 67 in D 90 in

Gustavian Cream Painted Four Poster Bed - Queen

Located in Westwood, NJ

A Modern Gustavian Cream Painted Four Poster Bed. A wonderful combination of antique Gustavian design and modern details.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Vietnamese Gustavian Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

American Sheraton Mahogany and Painted Four-Poster Bed, Circa 1830

Sold

H 85 in W 81 in D 60.5 in

American Sheraton Mahogany and Painted Four-Poster Bed, Circa 1830

Located in Charleston, SC

American Sheraton mahogany four-poster rope bed with painted recessed panels on headboard, floral and barley twist carved post, and terminating on turned bulbous legs.

Category

Antique 1830s American Sheraton Beds and Bed Frames

Italian Hand Painted Four Poster Faux Bamboo Bed by Patina with Birds, King

Sold

H 97 in W 83 in D 90 in

Italian Hand Painted Four Poster Faux Bamboo Bed by Patina with Birds, King

Located in Kennesaw, GA

I love this! It is a lovely hand painted four poster bed by Patina. It is Italian.

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Aesthetic Movement Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

Hand Made White & Gold Painted Carved Wooden Four Poster Bed

Sold

H 94.1 in W 83.86 in D 63.98 in

Hand Made White & Gold Painted Carved Wooden Four Poster Bed

Located in Worcester, GB

Elegant Handcrafted Four Poster Bed in White & Gold with Bespoke Silk Drapery A handsome and finely made four poster bed of mid-twentieth century date, recently refurbished to a...

Category

Mid-20th Century British Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

Neo-Classical Style Tole Painted Metal Framed Four Poster Bed, Queen

Sold

H 86.5 in W 62 in D 83.25 in

Neo-Classical Style Tole Painted Metal Framed Four Poster Bed, Queen

By Niermann Weeks

Located in Kennesaw, GA

This is a queen size neo-classical style tole painted metal four poster bed that is attributed to Niermann Weeks.

Category

Late 20th Century Unknown Neoclassical Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Metal

Maitland Smith Neoclassical Laurel Wreath Iron Four Poster Queen Size Bed

Sold

H 83.5 in W 63 in D 89 in

Maitland Smith Neoclassical Laurel Wreath Iron Four Poster Queen Size Bed

By Maitland Smith

Located in Dayton, OH

Late 20th century 4 poster bed by Lineage Home Furnishings for Maitland Smith. Made from wrought iron with a gridded form. The camelback headboard is centered by a large laurel wreat...

Category

Late 20th Century Neoclassical Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Iron

Federal Style Carved Mahogany Four Poster Bed in Manner of Samuel McIntire

Sold

H 99 in W 79 in L 99 in

Federal Style Carved Mahogany Four Poster Bed in Manner of Samuel McIntire

By Phillip Lowe

Located in Essex, MA

Incredible Handcrafted Four Poster Bed in Style of McIntire. Made by Phillip Lowe, Beverly, Massachusetts. Illustrated in "The Magazine Antiques," April 2003, "Living with Antiques...

Category

20th Century American Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany, Birch

RARE ORIGINAL BLUE 19THC CHILDS POSTER BED

Sold

H 37 in W 70 in D 36 in

RARE ORIGINAL BLUE 19THC CHILDS POSTER BED

Located in Los Angeles, CA

RARE EARLY 19THC ORIGINAL BLUE PAINTED CHILDS FOUR POSTER BED FROM NEW ENGLAND-WONDERFUL PATINA AND SURFACE W/ ROPE TIES ,THE CUSTOM MADE MATTRESS IS FROM 19THC HOMSPUN SHEETS AND FI...

Category

Antique 19th Century American Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood, Linen, Down

Italian Hand Painted Regency Style Queen Bed W/ Palm Fronds By Patina

Sold

H 91.5 in W 68 in D 88 in

Italian Hand Painted Regency Style Queen Bed W/ Palm Fronds By Patina

Located in Kennesaw, GA

Fantastic hand painted regency style queen size four poster bed with palm frond finials.

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Regency Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

20th C. Hand Painted Regency Style Bed with Palm Fronds Att. to Patina, Queen

Sold

H 92 in W 65.5 in D 81 in

20th C. Hand Painted Regency Style Bed with Palm Fronds Att. to Patina, Queen

Located in Kennesaw, GA

This is a hand painted regency style queen size four poster bed with palm frond finials.

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Regency Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

Sirmos King Size Arbor Bed

Sold

H 88 in W 85 in D 81 in

Sirmos King Size Arbor Bed

By Sirmos

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

A painted plaster four poster bed in the form of twigs and branches.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Beds and Bed Frames

Italian Four Poster Bed 19th Century

Sold

H 68.51 in W 82.68 in D 61.03 in

Italian Four Poster Bed 19th Century

Located in Buxton, GB

We are delighted to offer for sale this Fabulous Italian x4 Poster Bed This Bed is so Artistic & Unique! Solid Wood Great Condition Painted in Green Lacquer The Headboard has a C...

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Italian Baroque Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

Beautifully Patinated 19th Century Four-Poster Bed with Hand-Painted Headboard

Sold

H 75 in W 40 in D 78 in

Beautifully Patinated 19th Century Four-Poster Bed with Hand-Painted Headboard

Located in Los Angeles, CA

This is a rare and beautiful example of a 19th century European twin bed with hand-painted headboard... this piece is a beautiful addition to any guest room or would also be stunning...

Category

Antique 19th Century European Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

Regency Style Carved and Painted Four Poster Tester Bed with Palm Fronds, King

Sold

H 87 in W 84 in D 87.75 in

Regency Style Carved and Painted Four Poster Tester Bed with Palm Fronds, King

Located in Kennesaw, GA

This wonderful regency style carved and painted four poster tester bed with carved palm fronds on each post.

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Regency Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood, Paint

Black Painted and Parcel-Gilt King Size Four Poster Bed by Julia Gray

Sold

H 91.75 in W 86 in D 90 in

Black Painted and Parcel-Gilt King Size Four Poster Bed by Julia Gray

By Julia Gray

Located in Southampton, NY

Black painted and parcel-gilt four-poster bed by Julia Gray.

Category

Late 20th Century American Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Paint, Wood

Hollywood Regency Queen-Size Floral Four Poster Bed Frame

Sold

H 88 in W 67 in D 88 in

Hollywood Regency Queen-Size Floral Four Poster Bed Frame

Located in New York, NY

Hollywood Regency queen-size floral four poster bed frame. Solid wood with a painted finish.

Category

Mid-20th Century Hollywood Regency Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

A Painted Plaster Four-Poster Bed by Sirmos

Sold

H 88.5 in W 66 in D 87 in

A Painted Plaster Four-Poster Bed by Sirmos

Located in New York, NY

A Painted Plaster Four-Poster Bed by Sirmos, from the 1970’s, in the form of twigs and branches.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Beds and Bed Frames

George III Period Mahogany and Painted Four-Poster Bed

Sold

H 94 in W 79 in D 64 in

George III Period Mahogany and Painted Four-Poster Bed

Located in Peterborough, Northamptonshire

George III period mahogany and painted four-poster bed, formerly the property of the Lord Menuhin.

Category

Antique 1780s British Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

French Louis XVI Painted Four Poster bed

Sold

H 91.5 in W 78 in D 48 in

French Louis XVI Painted Four Poster bed

Located in Hudson, NY

PRICE REDUCTION A Louis XVI four poster bed in flaky old yellow paint, with carved a decorated head and footboard ends,posts,rails and baldachine.

Category

Antique 18th Century and Earlier French Beds and Bed Frames

Pair of Red Painted Four Poster Single Bed Frames

Sold

H 92 in W 42.5 in D 79 in

Pair of Red Painted Four Poster Single Bed Frames

Located in Hudson, NY

Pair of red painted four-poster bed single canopy bed frames.

Category

Late 20th Century American George III Beds and Bed Frames

An exceptional four poster painted mahogany bed

Sold

H 98.43 in W 90.16 in D 90.16 in

An exceptional four poster painted mahogany bed

By Jonathan Sainsbury

Located in Blandford Forum, Dorset

A cream and green painted four poster bed after a design by Robert Adam.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Chippendale Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

Anglo-Indian Carved Four Poster Bed Painted White

Sold

H 83 in W 60 in D 80 in

Anglo-Indian Carved Four Poster Bed Painted White

Located in Richmond, CA

Anglo-Indian solid teak bed that has been newly painted white. Elaborate carved details on headboard, spiral posts and canopy. Fits a full size mattress (bed measured dimensions for ...

Category

Antique 19th Century Indian Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Teak, Paint

Superb Sheraton Revival Satinwood Painted Single Four-Poster Bed with Canopy

Sold

H 81 in W 83 in D 42 in

Superb Sheraton Revival Satinwood Painted Single Four-Poster Bed with Canopy

Located in Darwen, GB

A superb Sheraton Revival satinwood painted single four-poster bed with canopy originally purchased from Harrods in London.

Category

Antique Early 1900s Edwardian Beds and Bed Frames

Late 20th Century Black Distressed Transitional Queen Four Poster Canopy Bed

Sold

H 94.5 in W 70 in D 92 in

Late 20th Century Black Distressed Transitional Queen Four Poster Canopy Bed

Located in Charlotte, NC

A Transitional style queen size four poster paneled bed with canopy, unbranded. Solid hardwood with a black painted distressed finish, arched paneled headboard, four turned posts wit...

Category

Late 20th Century Indonesian Other Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood, Paint

English Four-Poster Painted Tester Bed, circa 1880

Sold

H 89 in W 61 in D 79 in

English Four-Poster Painted Tester Bed, circa 1880

Located in Los Angeles, CA

This late 19th century painted English tester bed with distressed finish features four carved posters and designed headboard.

Category

Antique 1880s American Empire Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Linen, Upholstery, Wood

French Country Four-Poster, Painted King-Size Bed

Sold

H 67 in W 82 in D 86 in

French Country Four-Poster, Painted King-Size Bed

Located in Glendale, CA

Four poster bed in white antique washed finish. Accepts standard King-size mattress. Comes with slats not shown.

Category

Late 20th Century Country Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

Six Foot Wide Black Four Poster Bed ALH5

Sold

H 98 in W 72 in D 84 in

Six Foot Wide Black Four Poster Bed ALH5

Located in Wrexham, GB

A made-to-order bespoke four poster bed with ornate brass castings, tentacle canopy and brass crown. This hand crafted bed is a bespoke piece designed with specific dimensions. The b...

Category

2010s British Victorian Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Brass, Steel

18th Century Hand-Painted Venetian Style King Size Ivory Full Posts Roma Bed

$16,397 / item

H 102.76 in W 85.04 in D 88.98 in

18th Century Hand-Painted Venetian Style King Size Ivory Full Posts Roma Bed

By Porte Italia

Located in Ronchi dei Legionari, IT

Our ivory hand-painted roma bed, full posts with lotus finials. From our Hand-Painted Furniture Collection, our ivory Roma bed is surely one of our Best-Seller Pieces. Its high Head...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Other Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

Provincial Carved King Size Bed

$7,257 / item

H 70 in W 81.75 in D 86.75 in

Provincial Carved King Size Bed

Located in Westwood, NJ

A French Provincial carved king size bed with an arched and molded upholstered headboard with scroll wings, an upholstered and hand-carved framed low footboard and paneled rails on t...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Vietnamese French Provincial Beds and Bed ...

Materials

Wood

Classical Polished Queen Size Bed

$8,187 / item

H 61.5 in W 67.5 in D 86.75 in

Classical Polished Queen Size Bed

Located in Westwood, NJ

A Classical style cross-banded Queen bed, the arched headboard of three cross-banded panels flanked by bound reeded carved columns, with a paneled low footboard, on turned tapering l...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Vietnamese Neoclassical Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

18th Century Hand-Painted Venetian Style Queen Size Blue Roma Bed

$15,709 / item

H 102.76 in W 68.9 in D 88.98 in

18th Century Hand-Painted Venetian Style Queen Size Blue Roma Bed

By Porte Italia

Located in Ronchi dei Legionari, IT

From our Hand-Painted Furniture Collection, our blue Roma bed, full posts with raised gesso details and white lotus finials. We try to not play favourites, but we do have a few! The...

Category

2010s Italian Other Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

Modigliani Light Taupe with White Accents and Grotesque Canopy Bed

$23,660

H 95.67 in W 81.89 in D 85.83 in

Modigliani Light Taupe with White Accents and Grotesque Canopy Bed

By Porte Italia

Located in Milan, IT

The Modigliani light taupe canopy bed features a full canopy framed by slender posts and a headboard adorned with a delicate grotesque-inspired motif. Painted in soft taupe with subt...

Category

2010s Italian Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

English Country King Bed

$7,497 / 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

Venetian King Bed - Square HB

$11,730

H 91.75 in W 80.25 in D 86 in

Venetian King Bed - Square HB

By Century Furniture, Tara Shaw

Located in New Orleans, LA

This canopy bed features sculptural finials inspired by traditional Venetian roof finials, a detail deeply rooted in the city’s rich architectural heritage. The design draws from the...

Category

2010s Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Metal, Gold Leaf

Antique Italian Neoclassical Giltwood QUEEN Bed

$5,980

H 50.5 in W 75 in D 90 in

Antique Italian Neoclassical Giltwood QUEEN Bed

Located in Dallas, TX

Antique Italian Neoclassical Giltwood QUEEN Bed is a study in timeless style by one of the original sources for classic design! Utilizing broad radius curvatures on the headboard in...

Category

Early 20th Century Italian Neoclassical Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Fabric, Giltwood

Venetian King Bed w/Canopy

$12,720

H 106 in W 80.25 in D 86 in

Venetian King Bed w/Canopy

By Tara Shaw, Century Furniture

Located in New Orleans, LA

The Venetian canopy bed with a gilded crown and upholstered headboard is deeply rooted in the opulent design traditions of Venice, known for its luxurious and artistic furniture. Thi...

Category

2010s Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Metal, Gold Leaf

Venetian King Bed

$11,670

H 91.75 in W 80.25 in D 86 in

Venetian King Bed

By Century Furniture, Tara Shaw

Located in New Orleans, LA

The Venetian Canopy Bed is distinguished by its upholstered headboard, whose softly scalloped silhouette recalls the arched forms of historic palazzi and Gothic windows found through...

Category

2010s Bedroom Sets

Materials

Metal

Late 19th Century Swedish Period Gustavian Day Bed

$8,376

H 34.65 in W 81.89 in D 27.56 in

Late 19th Century Swedish Period Gustavian Day Bed

Located in Tetbury, Gloucestershire

A rare to source late 19th Century Swedish period freestanding Gustavian day bed repainted in soft blue. This model is normally is decorated on just three sides to go against a wall....

Category

Antique 19th Century Swedish Gustavian Daybeds

Materials

Wood

Louis XVI Canopy Bed with Upholstered Headboard, King

$10,340 / item

H 100 in W 78 in D 84 in

Louis XVI Canopy Bed with Upholstered Headboard, King

By Tara Shaw Maison

Located in New Orleans, LA

This Louis XVI-style canopy bed with upholstered headboard is from the custom Tara Shaw Maison collection. Handcrafted in New Orleans. Standard headboard upholstered in a oyster heav...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Louis XVI Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Metal

Four Poster Contemporary Pencil Post Bed by Boyd & Allister

$4,900 / item

H 78 in W 63.5 in D 83.5 in

Four Poster Contemporary Pencil Post Bed by Boyd & Allister

By Boyd & Allister

Located in Santa Fe, NM

This four poster contemporary pencil post bed was one of the original pieces that we made in our studio. Boyd & Allister got its start over 12 years ago making a line of beds for a l...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Walnut

Venetian King Bed w/Canopy - Square HB

$12,780

H 106 in W 80.25 in D 86 in

Venetian King Bed w/Canopy - Square HB

By Tara Shaw, Century Furniture

Located in New Orleans, LA

The Venetian canopy bed with a gilded crown and upholstered headboard is deeply rooted in the opulent design traditions of Venice, known for its luxurious and artistic furniture. Thi...

Category

2010s Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Metal

Greyed Oak Four Post King Bed

$10,535 / item

H 94.5 in W 83.25 in D 87.25 in

Greyed Oak Four Post King Bed

Located in Westwood, NJ

English greyed oak four poster bed with an elegantly carved canopy, with gothic motifs, urn finials and turned and carved posts. Dimensions: 83.25" W x 87.25" D x 94.5" H Other...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Vietnamese Georgian Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Oak

Louis XVI Style Queen Four Poster Bed

$5,760

H 89.25 in W 69 in D 81 in

Louis XVI Style Queen Four Poster Bed

Located in Locust Valley, NY

A Louis XVI style four poster bed with upholstered headboard and carved posts modeled after Rose Tarlow. Its soft neutral finish and striking carved columns give it an airy, elegant ...

Category

20th Century American Louis XVI Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Fabric, Wood

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Tito Agnoli for Arflex, Modular Sofa Model '9000', in Teddy Re-Upholstery 1970s

$19,500 / set

H 31.5 in W 31.5 in D 31.5 in

Tito Agnoli for Arflex, Modular Sofa Model '9000', in Teddy Re-Upholstery 1970s

By Arflex, Tito Agnoli

Located in Almelo, NL

Tito Agnoli for Arflex, modular sofa model '9000', in teddy fabric re-upholstery, Italy 1970s. This model is marked by showing infinite possibilities to customize its use accordi...

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Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Sectional Sofas

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Fabric, Beech

"Marchand" Scalloped Oak Nighstand by Christiane Lemieux

$1,800 / item

H 25 in W 28 in D 19 in

"Marchand" Scalloped Oak Nighstand by Christiane Lemieux

Located in New York, NY

The Marchand nightstand features elegantly scalloped edge detailing and textural door fronts, creating a standout design for any bedroom. Designed for convenience, it includes a pull...

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2010s Vietnamese Sideboards

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Oak

Tadao Alto Concrete Contemporary Console, 100% Handcrafted in Italy

$2,826 / item

H 31.5 in W 11.82 in D 47.25 in

Tadao Alto Concrete Contemporary Console, 100% Handcrafted in Italy

By Gaia Rebecchini, Laura Mochi Onori, Lorenzo Rebecchini

Located in Rome, Lazio

The Tadao line, created in homage to the famous architect with whom we share a minimalist approach and the creative use of the material, is the perfect synthesis of our philosophy: o...

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Concrete

Custom Coquillage Plaster Fixture

$16,500 / item

H 24 in Dm 20 in

Custom Coquillage Plaster Fixture

Located in New York, NY

Custom Coquillage plaster fixture. Please note this fixture can be customized in different sizes. Lead time is 10-12 weeks. Please inquire. We currently have one available. NOTE: ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

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Plaster

Rare Pair of Exeter Sterling Silver Parcel-Gilt Georgian Berry Spoons

$775 / set

H 0.5 in W 9 in D 2 in

Rare Pair of Exeter Sterling Silver Parcel-Gilt Georgian Berry Spoons

By William Woodman

Located in New York, NY

Rare pair of Georgian, sterling silver, parcel-gilt berry spoons, Exeter, England, 1830, William Woodman - maker. Measures: 9" long x 2" wide (at widest point). Vacant cartouche. Bea...

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Antique 19th Century British Georgian Sterling Silver

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Sterling Silver

British Frosted Glass Flush Mount Ceiling Lamps

$200 / item

H 7.88 in Dm 5.91 in

British Frosted Glass Flush Mount Ceiling Lamps

Located in Amsterdam, NL

British clear glass flush mount. Metal bulb holder with brass glass holder. Frosted glass with many lines and irregularities Brass ceiling plate / wall plate : diameter 10 cm / 3.94...

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Serge Castella Chandelier, circa 2000, France

$7,500 / item

H 52 in Dm 31 in

Serge Castella Chandelier, circa 2000, France

By Serge Castella Interiors

Located in Girona, Spain

Large "Spring" chandelier by Serge Castella Custom-made Signed and numbered Metal and plaster France, circa 2000 Excellent condition. Serge Castella Interiors focuses on Antiques, ...

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Antique bed, France, circa 1900.

Sold|~~$1,662~~

H 33.47 in W 50.79 in D 81.89 in

Antique bed, France, circa 1900.

Located in Chorzów, PL

Antique mirror from the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, France. This piece of furniture is in very good condition, after professional renovation. The upholstered elements have ...

Category

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Walnut

Pair of Carved Redwood Door Panels by Evelyn Ackerman

$18,000 / set

H 77 in W 66 in D 1 in

Pair of Carved Redwood Door Panels by Evelyn Ackerman

By Evelyn & Jerome Ackerman

Located in Palm Springs, CA

Incredible 1960’s carved redwood panels for entry doors by Evelyn and Jerome Ackerman. Designed to go over a double entry doors. Four panels with frame for each door. The door pulls ...

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Forsyth Luxury Zebra Hide King Pillow

$2,495 / item

H 18 in W 54 in D 10 in

Forsyth Luxury Zebra Hide King Pillow

Located in SAINT LOUIS, MO

Our Luxury King Pillow makes a show-stopping statement on a couch or an incredibly luxurious feel on the bed. Our Forsyth craftsmen use a single hide for this beautiful pillow. The z...

Category

2010s American Pillows and Throws

Materials

Zebra Hide, Cotton, Down

Brass dachshund knob

$113 / item

H 1.19 in W 2.37 in D 2.37 in

Brass dachshund knob

Located in Firenze, FI

Discover the unique charm of our dachshund-shaped brass knob. Carefully crafted, this adorable accessory adds a touch of personality to any space.

Category

2010s Doors and Gates

Materials

Brass

French Bureau Plat 20th C. with Black Gilt Trim Writing Surface

$7,500

H 31 in W 69 in D 33 in

French Bureau Plat 20th C. with Black Gilt Trim Writing Surface

Located in Houston, TX

This exquisite desk is very well made with beech wood and oak with Kingwood marquetry decorative motifs. Gilt bronze mounts decorate The edge and gilt masks embellish each corner....

Category

Early 20th Century French Louis XV Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Beech

Victorian Carved Wood Settee

$1,000

H 42 in W 64.5 in D 31.5 in

Victorian Carved Wood Settee

Located in San Francisco, CA

C. 20th century Victorian carved wood settee w/ light blue ribbed velvet.

Category

20th Century Settees

Materials

Velvet, Wood

Venetian rococo 19 th century bureau/secretaire hand painted

$19,500

H 106 in W 89 in D 27 in

Venetian rococo 19 th century bureau/secretaire hand painted

Located in Houston, TX

This fine quality Venetian secretary is beautifully carved and finely Painted in pale teal and rose hues. The bottom is carved in a bombe Shape and has four drawers that slide easil...

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Italian Secretaires

Materials

Hardwood

"Voltaire" Figured Oak Desk Table by Christiane Lemieux

$3,160 / item

H 30 in W 58 in D 22.5 in

"Voltaire" Figured Oak Desk Table by Christiane Lemieux

Located in New York, NY

The Voltaire Desk reflects the disciplined beauty of mid-century French ateliers. Handmade and hand-finished in wire-brushed oak, it reveals dimensional grain and structured proporti...

Category

2010s Vietnamese Art Deco Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Oak

Pair of Antique Chinese Iron Bound Courtyard Doors, c. 1900

$7,800

H 90 in W 53 in D 6 in

Pair of Antique Chinese Iron Bound Courtyard Doors, c. 1900

Located in Chicago, IL

This impressive set of doors dates to the turn of the century and originated as the outermost entrance gate to a traditional courtyard home in northern China. Crafted of locust wood ...

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Chinese Qing Doors and Gates

Materials

Iron

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Painted Four Poster Bed For Sale on 1stDibs

At 1stDibs, there are many versions of the ideal painted four poster bed for your home. A painted four poster bed — often made from wood, paint and mahogany — can elevate any home. Find 10 options for an antique or vintage painted four poster bed now, or shop our selection of 4 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. Whether you’re looking for an older or newer painted four poster bed, there are earlier versions available from the 18th Century and newer variations made as recently as the 21st Century. A painted four poster bed, designed in the Neoclassical, Georgian or Hollywood Regency style, is generally a popular piece of furniture. A well-made painted four poster bed has long been a part of the offerings for many furniture designers and manufacturers, but those produced by Julia Gray, Niermann Weeks and Phillip Lowe 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 Painted Four Poster Bed

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 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.
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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