Lit à la Polonaise, bed van groen en grijs geschilderd beukenhout met vijf conische poten met acanthusblad, snijwerk van bloem- en bladwerk, beklede hemel en schotten c. 1775

This Lit à la Polonaise, or Polish bed, was crafted from painted beechwood, with lavish textiles, by an anonymous maker. Its carved frame, a symphony of acanthus leaves and delicate floral motifs, speaks volumes about the skilled labor involved. Beechwood was favored for its fine grain, ideal for carving, and its ability to hold intricate details. Note the five conical legs, each a testament to the maker’s mastery. Gilding further elevates the piece, underscoring the patron’s wealth and status. But beyond aesthetics, this bed offers insight into social history. The choice of materials, the hand-carved details, and the opulent textiles reveal a culture of luxury and refinement. In its time, this bed was a symbol of power and privilege, made possible by extensive trade networks and a complex web of labor. By considering the materials, the making, and the context, we can appreciate the significance of this bed, challenging any distinctions between craft, design, and art.