High post bedstead

Date1780-1800

MediumMahogany, tulip poplar

DimensionsOH (post): 74"; OW: 58 1/4"; OL: 75 5/8"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1978-14

DescriptionHigh post bedstead: Head posts square in section to just above rail level with applied foot molding, plain turned above rail with 2 ring turnings at valance level; foot posts square in section to just above rail level with applied foot molding, 15" vase and ring turning just above rail with vertical leaf carving, surmounted by 45" beaded section with leaf and wheat carving at base, surmounted by 2 ring turnings at valance level above which is remaining plain turned section; surviving rail is poplar with shallow rabbet on inside upper edge and fine beads run on outside upper and lower edges and top edge of rabbet; rail has had pegs for ropes and notches for slats, neither of which appears original (original method of mattress support unclear); rails mortise and tenon jointed into posts and secured with bed bolts; 19th century head board triple arched on top, restoration head board flat and modeled on that from #1978-30; head board mortise and tenon jointed into head posts; molded cornice patterned on period prints; original copperplate hangings survive (see G1978-246, 1-6).
MarkingsVarious original and late Roman numeral assembly marks.
ProvenanceDescednded in the Galt family of Williamsburg and was in the Nelon-Galt house until acquired by CW in 1978. Bed curtains are reproductions of originals for this bed. According to family letters, bed curtains were sent to Dr. Galt by some of Lafayette's officers after the Revolutionary War.