Empire style bed

Bed, bedding, cot, bunk - no matter what name it is given, the place for sleeping is one of the most important aspects necessary in meeting basic human needs. Elements of a bed's appearance that usually draw attention are the external shape, material, technique, and style or a style's imitation. In the case of equipment manufactured since the mid-19th c., stylistic traits sometimes become difficult to identify clearly due to the eclectic borrowing and mixing of details and historicizing elements. The displayed piece of furniture can be classified as belonging to the late Biedermeier era and as discernibly inspired by the Empire style. This is apparent in, among other things, the gilded details carved in wood, modelled on brass castings: the mouldings and the bases and chapiters of the columns at the front and back of the bed. Developed in Austria and Germany, the Biedermeier style was popularised in central and eastern Europe. It was characterised by austerity, practicality, and comfort. Major social changes and the development of industry supported the introduction of new technical solutions. Awareness of hygiene and its impact on human health increased. For beds, as well as sofas, armchairs, and upholstered chairs, the invention and use of metal springs since the 1820s was not without importance. The springs revolutionised not only upholstery but also the definition of healthy sleep. This invention significantly influenced the further development of sleeping and sitting furniture. Teresa Bagińska-Żurawska https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9243-3967