The first metal beds made their appearance in ancient Egypt. Tutankhamun himself had a metal bed, though his was made of gold and ebony--certainly not the materials one would expect to find in today's metal beds. It was not until late in the 18th century that metal beds with more common materials such as cast iron made their appearance. Other materials also became popular, such as brass and steel. Does this Spark an idea?
Art Deco Metal Bed Frames
The Art Deco period was in the 1920s and 30s and was very distinctive. The designs from this period were characterized by distinct outlines, sharp curves, zig-zags and geometric forms. Art Deco metal beds feature these designs and are often made of wrought iron.
Art Nouveau Metal Bed Frames
The Art Nouveau period was in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The designs of this period were softer than the Art Deco period and featured more natural forms like soft curves and designs that resembled flowers or vines. Metal bed frames in the Art Nouveau style have these softer curves in the headboard and footboard designs. These beds can be made of wrought iron or brass.
Craftsman Metal Bed Frames
It can be said that the Craftsman style was a reaction to the ornateness of the Victorian era. It has some of the simplicity of the Art Deco era. According to Cathouse Beds, the Craftsman "utilizes the sense of openness and space in conjunction with rustic boldness." There are curves with Craftsman metal bed frames, but they're less ornate than those of the Art Nouveau metal bed frames.
Victorian Metal Bed Frames
The Victorian era corresponded with the reign of Queen Victoria--from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Like the Art Nouveau era, the Victorian era was characterized by curves, though these curves were softer and similar to the body of a woman. By the end of the era, the designs of the Victorian era were very ornate. Metal bed frames in the Victorian style can reflect the beginning or the end of the era with the level of ornamentation.
Depression Era Metal Bed Frames
This style has the echos of the Art Deco era, though much of the ornamentation is gone. These designs are simpler, with soft curves instead of the sharper, Art Deco angles. The finish of the Depression-era metal bed frames could be wrought iron that was either plain or painted.
Tags: metal beds, wrought iron, beds made, Deco period, frames Victorian
