The Kedleston State Bed
James Gravenor (fl.1760 - 1770)
Category
Furniture
Date
1768
Materials
Mahogany, giltwood (deal or lime), oak frame, textile
Measurements
254 cm (Width) x 240 cm (Depth)
Place of origin
England
Order this imageCollection
Kedleston Hall, Derbyshire
NT 108628.1
Summary
The Kedleston State Bed, a mahogany and giltwood carved tester bedstead, made by James Gravenor, (Derbyshire,fl.1741-1768), completed in 1768. The bed posts formed as palm trees with gilt roots forming the feet. Large gilt foliage sprays support the canopy, which is surmounted by large foliage sprays, the corners with plumes of grey ostrich feathers. The underside of the canopy applied with giltwood foliate designs on a ground of pale blue flowered silk brocade, the back of the bed with foliage sprays, a coronet and monogram on similar brocade.
Provenance
Commissioned by Nathaniel Curzon, 1st Baron Scarsdale for the State Bedroom at Kedleston. Made by James Gravenor and completed in 1768. Purchased in 1987 by the National Heritage Memorial Fund from Francis Curzon, 3rd Viscount Scarsdale (1924-2000). On loan to the National Trust from the National Heritage Memorial Fund 1987-1988. Gifted to the National Trust in 1988 by the National Heritage Memorial Fund.
Makers and roles
James Gravenor (fl.1760 - 1770), cabinetmaker