Industrial - Antique - Design
Industrial - Antique - Design
A box-bed (also known as a closed bed, close bed, or enclosed bed) is a bed enclosed in furniture that looks like a cupboard, half-opened or not. The form originates in western European late medieval furniture. The box-bed is closed on all sides by panels of wood. One enters it by removing curtains, opening a door hinge or sliding doors on one or two slides. The bed is placed on short legs to prevent moisture due to a dirt floor. In front of the box-bed was often a large oaken chest, with the same length as the bed. This was always the 'seat of honour,' and served also as a step for climbing into the bed. It was also used to store clothing, underwear and bedding the rest of the time In the Netherlands the closet-bed, or bedstede, was in common use into the 19th century, particularly in farmhouses in the countryside. Closet-beds were closed off with a door or a curtain. One of the advantages of the closet-bed was that it could be built into the living room and closed off during the day, making a separate bedroom unnecessary. The other main advantage was that, during the winter, the small area of the closet-bed would be warmed by body heat. This meant the stove would not need to be kept stoked at night. The door would not be shut completely, but left open a bit. During the 16th and 17th century, closet-beds were much smaller, like this one. Lying down was associated with death, and therefore sleeping was done in a half-upright position. These closet-beds held two people, and beneath them were often drawers "rolkoetsen" that pulled out and provided beds for the children.
This early 17th century box-bed is handmade of oak.On the used right side you will find a small cabinet with door, originally for clothing storage.On top of the cabinet you will find an open storage cabinet.
Anyway, this box-bed frame can be used for restauration purposes as well for a decorative function. You can easily put a tv screen in the front opening for instance. It is a fabulous add on in every style of interior.
OF THE PERIOD: early 17th century
PLACE OF ORIGIN: The Netherlands, details unknown, but salvaged from a collector, living in the city of Delft, The Netherlands.