A Federal Mahogany Bedstead, Baltimore, c.1815

a Federal turned tall post bed; retains its original one-piece figured mahogany headboard and poplar tester; the original mahogany rails are un-alterd in length with replaced pegs; this use of more expensive mahogany for the rails was rare, expected only of a "city" maker having greater access to supply; a lack of multiple ring turnings, no "ears" and/or "rolling pin" on the headboard, and the lower placement of the vase turnings on the posts, all indicate an earlier date of manufacture than its Empire counterparts (see figure 32 in Weidman's Furniture in Maryland 1740-1940); in an old "chocolate brown" finish; dimensions: 61" wide x 78 1/2" long x 93 3/4" tall

$14,000