What was the purpose of bed drapes?

What was the purpose of bed drapes?

Draperies provided warmth, and privacy. Even in these days of central heating and show-all, tell-all mores, draperies have their uses. Not only can they add a titillating sense of mystery to a bedroom (what’s behind the curtain?), but they can be yanked closed on the days you neglect to make your bed.

What are the curtains around a bed called?

A corona is suspended at the head of the bed like a crown (hence its name), with draperies extending down to the corners of the bed.

Why did four poster beds have curtains?

Bedrooms often had drafts and could be cold at night: the curtains could be closed to help keep the occupant of the bed warm. A four poster bed with backboard and tester allowed extra space from which to display and hang expensive fabrics and heraldic decoration.

What’s the point of a four poster bed?

Four poster beds are designed in such a way that there are four long posts at each of the four corners giving it a different look from that of regular beds. These posts can be used to cover around the bed with drapes and serves both the aesthetic and functional needs.

What era are canopy beds from?

Canopy beds first emerged during the middle ages, around the 13th century – marking the medieval era – in Europe, and have been seeing constant evolution since.

Are canopy beds childish?

Canopy beds are inherently playful—we usually find them in childrens’ rooms, after all. Some may see this as a bad thing, but there are plenty of ways to have fun without making a space feel childish. Invite yourself to experiment with cheeky wallpaper, textured drapes, and brightly colored linens.

What is a tester bed?

: a four-poster of moderate height with a canopy supported on a frame.

Why is it called a poster bed?

Although the origins of the four poster bed are a little vague, it is believed to have originated in Austria. By the 15th Century, the four post, or great standing bed, was introduced. Ornately carved, painted and decorated with coat of arms, the four poster was a bed designed to be passed down through the family.

What does half tester bed mean?

: a bed with a low foot and a canopy projecting from the posts at the head.

Why were beds so high off the ground?

So why were iron beds so high off the ground? The old beds and even their wooden counterparts were elevated higher than what we’re use to today because of cold drafts that were close to the ground. Thus actually eliminating the need for a dresser in a small bedroom that has little space for other than just a bed.

Why are old beds so high?

The old beds and even their wooden counterparts were elevated higher than what we’re use to today because of cold drafts that were close to the ground. The higher a bed could be constructed from the ground, the closer to the warmer air that collected at the ceiling it would be.

When was the canopy bed invented?

Canopy beds first emerged during the middle ages, around the 13th century – marking the medieval era – in Europe, and have been seeing constant evolution since. While the poor folk made-do with straw pellets, the nobility had their own domestic situation to deal with.