Canopy Bed Design

The canopy bed came into existence more for utilitarian means rather than for extravagance or decadence. Canopy beds with curtains that could completely enclose the bed were used by lords and noblemen in medieval Europe for warmth and privacy, as their attendants often slept in the same room. Until the 16th century, these beds, even those of the nobles, were fairly plain and understated. During this period, carved work on the headboard and posts became popular and more ornate canopy beds followed.

In pre-Republican China, until 1911, the family's canopy bed was the most important piece of household furniture, and often part of the bride's dowry. As signifiers of status, these beds were often intricately decorated with auspicious motifs, particularly relating to fertility, longevity and a happy marital union.

Early European castles had what were called great halls. Not only did the Lord of the manor and his family sleep in this room, all his servants did as well. The Lord’s family slept at one end of the large hall and the servants at the other. The canopy bed, with its thick curtains, afforded the families some degree of privacy. As castles were built with separate sleeping chambers, canopy beds with curtains, no longer were used for privacy but were now being used for warmth.