Coverlet for a bed (Lit à la duchesse en impériale) 1775 - 1795

This is a “Coverlet for a bed” or “Lit à la duchesse en impériale,” made by Beauvais. Bed hangings like this one provide insight into the world of aristocratic life in the 18th century. Textiles, especially tapestries, were more than mere decoration; they signified wealth, status, and power. Imagine the sensory experience of being enveloped in such luxury, the weight of the fabric, the soft colors, and the intricate details creating an intimate and exclusive space. The floral motifs can be seen as a celebration of nature but also reflect the highly stylized and controlled aesthetics favored by the French court. The bed itself was a stage for social rituals, from morning greetings to intimate gatherings, reflecting the highly gendered and performative aspects of courtly life. This coverlet is a reminder of the intricate ways in which power, gender, and identity were woven into the very fabric of everyday existence.