Labeled Gillows, Lancaster Late Regency Mahogany Tester Bed

second quarter 19th century, the molded tester supported by reeded foot posts joined by a reeded and foliate-carved blanket rail, the square head posts with a tripartite paneled headboard with a gadrooned crest flanked by like scrolls ending in floral-carved roundels, stamped "Gillows/Lancaster".
h. 108-1/2", inside w. 59-1/2", l. 65-1/2", outside w. 78", l. 84"

Notes: The firm Gillows & Co. was founded by George Gillows in 1728. The firm remained in the family until the early years of the 19th century and continued to operate under the Gillows name until 1897. In the 20th century, the firm became Waring and Gillows.

In "as found" condition, in what appears to be an old or original finish that has been cleaned in the fairly distant past, now with normal mars, abrasions, scrubs, shrinkage and indications of age and use. The tester fabric exhibits some scattered soiling. The headboard has splices at each end of its ears making it wider. The rails have never been finished. The carved and reeded blanket rail joining the footposts is a replacement. The bolt covers are missing from the posts.