Brass Bed Styles of the Victorian Era

Transition from Wood

• Victorian homeowners decorated the bedroom with ornate wood bed frames in the early part of the era. In the late 1800s, metals such as brass became more popular. The metal beds provided a greater opportunity for an intricate design because the material could be bent into different shapes. Metals such as brass also increase the durability of the bed.

Ornate Designs

• Artisans could use hammering techniques to shape the bed frame into a delicate and more complex design. Elegant floral designs and complicated scrollwork added to the excessive Victorian interior style. The style of the brass beds included dramatic four-poster frames with luxurious fabric canopies. Victorian homeowners also added heavy curtains to the sides of the bed to keep the sleeping area warm.

Brass Maintenance

• Polished brass beds can maintain their beauty with regular cleaning and shining with polishing compounds. Antique brass beds from the Victorian era may have a darker appearance, or patina. Polishing the brass on an antique bed to remove the patina may cause the furniture to lose some of its value. The patina is a distinguishing feature of an aged piece. A dry cloth can keep the antique brass bed free of dust without removing the aged appearance.

Accessorizing the Brass Bed

• While a classic brass Victorian bed is the focal point in a bedroom décor, to coordinate the rest of the room with the decorating style, use furniture with dark wood and ornate carvings, floral prints for wall coverings and curtains in the room. Victorian decorating uses dark and rich colors such as deep blue, green and red to coordinate with the strong dark stain used on wood furnishings.