Horm Stories #47
Today, we want to tell you the story of the canopy bed—a fascinating tale that spans centuries of culture, craftsmanship, and symbolism. It all begins in the Middle Ages, when precious fabrics such as brocade and damask made their way from the East to Europe. These textiles were often called baldekinus, named after the city of Baghdad, historically referred to as Baldac, Baldacco, or Baldachin in Latin, renowned for its production of sumptuous fabrics.
Around the 13th and 14th centuries, the bed began to take on a more imposing structure. In cold, drafty medieval castles, the canopy bed was not only a symbol of status but also a practical necessity. Heavy drapes retained warmth and provided protection from insects, light, and the prying eyes of servants, as beds were often placed in shared—or even open—rooms.
One of the oldest examples is the bed of Henry VII of England, dating back to the late 15th century. Its wooden canopy is richly carved and adorned with heraldic symbols. Today, this bed is preserved at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
During the Renaissance, and especially throughout the Baroque period, the canopy bed became increasingly sumptuous. In European royal palaces, the bed was not merely a place for sleeping but a ceremonial space. At Versailles, Louis XIV received ambassadors and dignitaries during the à la levée, the morning ritual of rising. In these contexts, the canopy symbolized the absolute power of the sovereign. It was crafted from silk, velvet, and gold, adorned with crests, fringes, and lavish embroidery.
A curious anecdote: in the royal bedchamber, only a select few were allowed to witness the coucher du roi, the symbolic act of putting the king to bed. This ritual emphasized how even the most private moment was, in fact, a public demonstration of power.
Today, designers reinterpret this historic element for contemporary interiors. A perfect example is Horm’s Moheli Baldacchino, an elegant fusion of tradition and modern minimalism. With oak legs and frame, and an upholstered headboard available in leather, fabric, or eco-leather, the Moheli Baldacchino evokes the grandeur of the past while maintaining a sober and functional style.
The canopy bed, once a medieval shelter and later a symbol of royal splendor, is today a refined piece of furniture. If you are looking for a canopy bed with a touch of modernity, Moheli is the ideal choice: thanks to its sophisticated design and high-quality materials, it transforms every night into an experience of comfort and luxury.
