From Fryars Knots To Festoon Hangers: The Art Of The Trimmings-Maker In The Creation Of The State Bed

Annabel Westman, FSA

Exorbitant sums were once spent on fringes, tassels and braid in the creation of a grand bed. A mere 7¼ yards of elaborate fringe cost nearly £440 (at least £65,000 today) on Queen Catherine of Braganza’s bed at Windsor Castle in 1678 and, in 1786 when trimmings were more delicate, the state bed at Audley End had about £165 worth of applied decoration (minimum of £21,000 today). Based on archival research and original examples from the 1670s to the 1780s, this talk will discuss their extensive use through a series of case studies, which demonstrate the significance and status of this iconic object. The intricate designs of many of the items will be explored and their interplay with rich fabrics that together formed such a visual feast to the eye.