Greek Island Bed Tent Panel, Kos, Early 18th C. Silk embroidered linen. Size: 91'' x 17'' (231 x 43 cm). Bed tents, known as "sperveri," are a distinct feature of the Dodecanese islands, and this particular panel hails from Kos. Bed tents are typically constructed from multiple panels, with most of them adorned with intricate embroidery. They taper towards the top and are adorned with valances at both the front top and bottom. Their primary purpose, as one might expect, is to provide protection from flying insects.The decorative motifs on this bed panel are uniquely Dodecanese, characterized by rows of flower pots, or "glastras," arranged both vertically and horizontally. These flower pots are notable for their size, compactness, and contained design. While both Rhodes and Kos, two of the larger Dodecanese Islands, have similar bed tents, the key distinction lies in the stitchwork. Rhodes favors a heavy cross-stitch technique, whereas Kos employs a fine single darning stitch, highlighting the regional variations in embroidery styles.

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