French Beds

We offer a large selection of French style beds...

Throughout history French style of home furnishings has been emulated and developed dramatically. In the beginning French furniture was greatly inspired by religion, wealth and beliefs and therefore was very dramatic and majestic in design, over time concepts changed and furniture took on a role of style teamed with function.   Here at the French Furniture Market we are truly passionate about maintaining that raw classical french style to make sure our clients receive a piece of furniture that is reminiscent of that of the early baroque period right through to late French neo-classic design. Below is a brief description on a few of our period reproduction french beds and the charismatic history that accompanies them:

The Baroque Bed

The Louis XIII style, a transitional period that helped form the French Baroque until around 1700 when it reached it's culmination under Louis XIV. The Baroque period was largely influenced by foreign artists and craftsmen, a 'French Style' became evident around 1660. The Baroque bed was traditionally used for ornamental purposes for the monarch to receive his or her subjects so in turn was very extravagant and ornately carved, solid ebony wood was traditionally used by skilled craftsmen who also undertook the delicate carving. Favourite carved motif's of this time included female busts, fruit and foliage, developing into more ceremonious designs such as crowns, trophies and coats of arms. The Baroque style bed is the perfect choice for those clients wishing to introduce an imperial element into their bedroom and create a truly impressive focal point.  

The Rococo Bed

Before the end of the 17th century the formality and flamboyance that had characterised the major portion of Louis XIV's reign began to change. In the 18th century a new social attitude began to assert itself; the direction was towards relaxation and pleasure. Furniture design began to soften and was now geared towards comfort and function. Wood began to be imported, solid purplewood was used by skilled craftsmen who also undertook the delicate carved detail that still appeared in a much more toned down context. The Rococo style bed was predominately a foot board and headboard of which the foot board was usually lower, on the other hand other styles adopted headboards and foot boards of equal heights with iron rods curved upwards and inwards to meet in the middle where fabric was draped from the centre to all 4 corners of the bed. The Rococo style bed is an elegant style bed that oozes class and sophistication whilst not lacking on comfort.

The Day Bed

Day beds have been used consistently throughout history for their sheer simplicity and portability. Designed to fit into any niche or alcove the day bed typically had two or three enclosed sides. During the Rococo period and the early french neo-classic period these beds were commonly used and were charactistically treated in a light and graceful manner, shells, floral motif's and C-scrolls were often used in the design and decoration of these stunning beds. The French Day Bed is a unique and truly charming designed bed for those clients wanting to introduce a delicate yet functional French style bed into their bedroom or alternatively used as Chaise Longue for additional seating.

The Louis XV Bed

The Louis XV style bed was designed by Mon-bro, a French designer. The bed frame, fully exposed, was heavily carved with asymmetrical decorative detail. In his design both the foot board and the headboard were upholstered, this style was usually characterised by the by supreme craftsmanship and the integration of the arts of cabinetmaking, painting and sculpture. The Louis XV style bed has been adapted and renovated over the years to suit different decors however the essence of the Louis style is still the same and this is conveyed in a truly classic look that has the ability to never date. At The French Furniture Market the Louis XV style bed is one of our specialities and we have a number of different designs to suit.

The Directoire Bed

The Directoire style is distinct in it's use of neo-classical design with minimal carving and applied decorative painting. Directoire style beds usually consisted of a foot board and headboard of equal heights. The wood of choice was traditionally solid mahogany and although some designs were treated in a very reserved manner others did carry minimal carved motif's of a more political nature. The Directoire style bed is a perfect choice for those clients wanting to introduce a regal element into their bedroom without an excess of fuss and frills. These style beds are versatile in their design and also have the ability to make a bold and impressive statement.

Now you have all the information that you will need to make a well informed decision as to which bed is best suited to you and your bedroom, so get cracking and browse our extensive collection of French Beds that are just waiting to be the focal point of your room.