Bedstead

1775-1825

Measurements

33 1/2 in x 78 in x 45 in

Materials

Maple and hard pine (headboard)

Credit Line

Gift of the Pryor children in honor of Sara Corbit Reese Pryor

Accession Number

2019.142

Condition Notes

The top portion of the headboard has split along the grain; it is now reinforced from behind by four wood braces screwed in place. The bedstead was adapted for use with a modern box spring and mattress.

Provenance

The bedstead descended in the family of Sally Pryor and is believed to have come from the Corbit House.

Comments

This bedstead, sometimes called a field bed or servant's bed, tells little about the person who used it.  Because of its low posts, it could not be “dressed” with bed hangings or other expensive textiles for privacy and warmth.  Its simple design was widespread and essentially unchanged over many decades.  Thus, dating and determining a regional place of origin is problematic.  The four rails attach to the upright posts in mortise and tenon joints. The tenons meet inside the mortises at a neat miter (or 45-degree angle), indicating care on the part of the maker.  The bedstead has an early red wash that covers some striped grain in the maple bed rails.

Bibliography

Zimmerman, A Storied Past, 174-175.