Description :

Antique Chinese scholar's bed in hardwood - client purchased from an antique dealer in Pioneer Square approximately 25 years ago. At the time she was told the bed was late 19thC, which we believe is probably true given the aging of the wood and the carving handiwork (the whole bed is put together without screws or nails - it appears to be completely constructed with mortise and tenon joins). There are rails on 3 sides & part of the 4th, 4 corner supports, and 2 front supports with a solid plank top. Turned decorative pole panels on 3 sides and part of the front above the seat deck in addition to decorative spans several inches below the top. Woven support for futon/mattress was redone in mid-20thC, but support "ropes" below appear to be original as do the 6 hardwood transverse stretchers on on the base piece.

Shows wear typical of age, but the scrapes and marks give it lots of character - if only the bed could tell us all it's seen over the past century or two!  All parts except the footed base can be disassembled to allow for almost flat pack storage/moving. It is a bit tricky putting the bed together - we found bungee cords to be extremely helpful when placing the top on the bed for aligning the joins. They can be removed once you have all the joins firmly in place; the assembled bed is sturdy and strong. The bed measures approx. 80" H x 84" W x 40" D assembled.

Please note that the woven support (the redone deck) has a couple of spots of damage that don't affect the support strength or aesthetics as they are so minor, but it would be good to repair the spots if the piece is to see heavy use in the long run - see last 3 photos that focus in on the 2 spots. (Pillows in lead photo not included.)

Known as jiazichuang (canopy bed), beds like ours served a double purpose in China - both as a bed and as a couch - think Chinese "take" on a daybed. If was a locus of conversation during the day and often fitted with pillows to lounge & converse. The beds usually had a soft bed support of woven organic materials over the frame (mattress) and was made of hardwood with designs from simple to highly ornate.  

Local Pickup Only. Bidding on this lot is an agreement that: (1.) You will have 2 capable, able-bodied persons to lift and load at a minimum. (2.) You will bring a hand truck and/or any other tools needed to remove this item. If these steps are not followed your item will be forfeited and no refund given.