FRANÇOIS BAUDRY EXHIBITION BED
This gondola shaped bed was never used. It was created by the cabinet maker François Baudry for an exhibition of French Industry in 1827.
Made from poplar, it was trimmed with five different blonde woods – ash, elm, lemon tree, oak and sycamore. The bed won an award presented by King Charles X’s son the Duke of Angouleme.
Boat beds continued to be popular during the reign of the next King Louis-Philippe.
*The painting of the Duke of Angouleme presenting the award is regarded as most likely having been commissioned by Baudry as a souvenir. The presentation actually took place at the Tuileries Palace, not at the exhibition as depicted.
