A Chinese canopy bed, or marriage bed, was the most important part of a bride's dowry and was the central feature of her personal quarters. Traditionally, beds were central to Chinese everyday life and were very versatile: a seat upon which to entertain friends during the day and an intimate sleeping chamber at night. Decorated with fine carvings, inlay, and cushioned accessories, the canopy bed became an important symbol of rank and status, and the subject of rivalry among wives and concubines.
This elaborate canopy bed from northern China dates to the late 19th century and is well-appointed with decorative carvings, gilt accents and a glossy, red lacquer finish. The four-post frame is inset with gilded fretwork and relief panels of various ribbon-clad treasures, including scrolls & books, incense burners, instruments, coins & ingots and fine vases filled with flowers. An openwork railing encloses the bed, carved with geometric scrollwork and fan-form panels of delicate florals.
The bed itself has an unusual, two-piece design, each with a surface of hand-woven reed and dark lacquer. The front apron and legs are carved in low relief with geometric scrollwork and flowering pomegranate branches, a motif for a large and successful family. The bed includes a low footstool for stepping in and out of the bed, beautifully textured with a matching finish of cinnabar red lacquer.
