A Large High-Waisted Huanghuali Six-Post Canopy Bed

Late Ming/Early Qing Period
Canopy Bed
Cocobolo (Huanghuali)
223 × 154 × 221 cm

• The Bed with Six Pillars is constructed from huanghuali wood, featuring a bed frame, pillars, and teeth all interconnected using mortise and tenon joints, which allows for the furniture to be easily taken apart and reassembled. The canopy has a sloping frame structure attached to the pillars, while the hanging eaves are intricately carved with balanced cloud patterns and are further embellished with chiwen motifs on the front and corners.
• The door frame and bed frame are both segmented into upper and lower sections; the upper part displays horizontal bars with carved flowers, presenting either double chiwen or plum blossom patterns, or flower-shaped openings filled with cloud stone. The lower part bears hanging panels with a quartet of cloud patterns, divided by a four-leaf flower design, where the carvings pierce through the entire panel.
• The interplay of solid and void is elegantly managed with cross brackets that employ interlocking craftsmanship, creating a harmonious and rhythmic design. This balance is a testament to the skilled artistry and thoughtful construction of the bed, highlighting the meticulous attention to detail in traditional Chinese furniture-making.

Reference and image source: China Guardian (HK) Auctions Co., Ltd.