A rare antique 19th century vernacular pine Irish settle bed
Code: 10255
Dimensions:
A very uncommon and hard to source settle bed, dating to the mid 19th century. Constructed in solid pine, this is a wonderful example of true Irish vernacular country cottage furniture.
Settle beds were often found in 19th and early 20th century Irish farmhouses and cottages. Serving as a seat during the day, and then bed by night. Generally situated against the back wall of a kitchen near the hearth. The front section of these settles would be hinged allowing it to open out revealing a bed to the interior.
This would create a long box bed mostly for children or servants.
The bed itself would be made from a straw stuffed bedding roll, or even just straw.
Given the settle bed’s design, the seat height was generally higher than the standard settle bench.
With all vernacular objects particularly furniture, their origins are very rarely known, however its accepted Ireland was one of the countries where settle beds were first used. The earliest recorded Irish settle bed can be found in the 1640 inventory of the Waterford based merchant John Kiddy Snr. It is also documented settled beds were housed in Dublin Castle in 1684.
The antique settle bed we have for sale was discovered just outside Belfast. This is a particularly large example, which when opened forms a bed large enough for two people. These ‘double’ examples are even more scarce making this an even more amazing find!
Making for a grand statement piece, with amazing colouration to the pine, and time worn deep patina. The heavy-duty vernacular hand built construction is still a testament to its original maker.
The settle bed has a charming iron pull handle to the front centre, which once pulled allows the front section to gently hinge over. The hinges themselves are well constructed and original to the piece.
Simple in its design, this is a wonderful piece of 19th century Irish country pine furniture.
An ideal space saver solution for any cottage interior, the perfect addition for a rural holiday rental, giving flexibility of additional sleeping options.
Certainly museum worthy.
Dimensions :-
Width – 183.1cm
Height – 128cm
Depth – 54cm
Seat height – 76cm
Seat depth – 50.8cm
Backrest height – 52cm
Depth when opened out – 116cm
Internal dimensions :-
Depth – 111cm
Width – 172.5cm
Height to underside of seat – 67.5cm
Found in original condition with the original metal hinges and handle.
Structurally sound and ready to use.
Minor movement to seat boards, but this is just the natural flex in the timber. The seat bares weight as intended.
A small area of staining to the seat boards as illustrated. Some old hard wax present within small recesses.
Evidence of historic woodworm, which is non active, this has additionally been treated for peace of mind.
Some small areas of loss which are commensurate with the settles ages.
The front when in its upright position sits slightly proud of the end panels.
Two small historic repairs to the timber.
*Delivery fee is based on UK mainland, buyers located in Scotland and Wales please make contact prior to committing to purchase to request a shipping quote*
