Four Poster beds: A Brief History

Interior designers will sometimes bring a bit of drama to a bedroom with a four poster bed. Cannock Beds investigate how these elaborate beds came about, then largely faded out.

As with sports cars today, an impressive bed was seen to be an indication of wealth and success in the 1300s. Barons, land-owners and rich traders would have a canopy draped over the bed frame, and sometimes even a ‘truckle’ for their closest servant to sleep on (similar to a pull-out guest bed).

Bed frames with canopies

These awnings and beds became bigger and bigger, eventually becoming the four poster bed we recognise during the 1400s. They became very popular and rapidly more and more flamboyant, covered in silks and expensive French feather pillows.

By the Tudor era the beds had progressed to enormous proportions, with thick, solid walnut posts and huge headboards elaborated with colourful coats of arms. But this size was to become their downfall eventually. As time progressed and wealth became more evenly spread, most people couldn’t accommodate or afford such a bed, and more sensible options superseded them.

Although CannockBeds.co.uk don’t stock four posters, their carefully selected range of stylish modern beds are ideal for a less ostentatious age.