FURNITURE 

French Bedstead with Crown
Charles-Honore Lannuier (1779-1819)
Mahogany, burl elm veneer, ash with gilt and vert antique decoration, eastern white pine, soft maple and hard maple, cherry, rosewood veneers, cut brass inlays and ormulu mounts, c. 1817
AIHA Collection: Gift of Constance Van Rensselaer Thayer Dexter [Mrs. William Dexter], great-granddaughter of Stephen Van Rensselaer IV

From the 17th century onward in America, bedsteads were traditionally among the most costly items listed in household inventories. French bedsteads were among the most fashionable pieces of furniture in the early 19th century. This magnificent bedstead belonged to Stephen Van Rensselaer IV (1789-1868) and was among the furnishings of the Van Rensselaer Manor House. While the bedstead has survived in excellent condition, the crown from which its hangings would have originally been suspended is not known to exist, nor do the original hangings survive. 
The French-born Lannuier was one of the most fashionable and sought-after cabinet-makers of the day, and by the time of his death in 1819, his reputation as a premier cabinetmaker in the French taste was well established.