poster headboard
poster headboard
poster headboard
Beds with headboards make for elegant looking furniture. Headboards often serve to be the focal point in a room and thus one must select one with great care, keeping in mind whether it compliments the room, furniture and even the bed sheets. Headboards lend an aesthetic charm to the bedroom as well as serve the practical purpose of being a back rest for the sleepers. Surprisingly, headboards initially functioned as a necessity to keep the bed temperature warmer than that of the room. Headboards developed to protect sleepers from the cold weather by blocking him from the wind. Four poster beds were extremely useful for this purpose, wherein the sleeper could draw a thick curtain all around his bed to protect himself and remain warm. While those who could afford headboards commissioned broad wooden ones, those who were not as well off created make-shift headboards with straw or stacked cloth. With time, headboards became increasingly ornate and took on the role of a status symbol. Thus the fancier a headboard was it symbolized the high status of the owner.
Pharaohs in ancient Egypt had headboards made of ebony, sliver and gold. The English preferred headboards fashioned out of wood, sometimes with intricate carvings. However, it was the Greeks who created whacky and unique headboards! These headboards could of course be used for warmth while sleeping, or as support in a semi reclined position as well as a table on which they could eat their food! Here, the headboard took on the role of three pieces of furniture in one!
It was during medieval times that people started realizing the dual function of headboards not only as a bed warmer but also as a valuable accessory to enhance the look of the room and prominently display the status and wealth of the owner. Thus wooden headboards with intricate carvings were high in demand for those who could afford them. Upholstered headboards also became stylish during this time for their comfort as well as the intensely luxurious feel they lent to the bedroom. Some wooden headboards form the medieval times were so strong that they can be found in an excellent condition, even today.
Colonial times saw headboards becoming a source of currency for Europe as extravagant headboards were being exported from Europe to various parts of the world.
Today, the modern consumer can choose from a variety of assorted headboards, from metal, to wood, to the upholstered kind. The type of headboard he chooses should compliment the room. Metal headboards with a basic structure give a modernist, minimal feel while those with intricate carvings lend a decorative air to the room with a touch of modernity. For those who prefer the old fashioned look, wooden headboards are an excellent option. Decorative wooden headboards add an instant touch of royal glamour to the room. Those who prefer comfort over aesthetics can opt for upholstered headboards as they are very comfortable to recline on. One can chose plain or patterned textiles. Leather is a better option as it is easy to clean.
By Michael C Logan
Article Source:EzineArticles.com
