Rare Antique Gothic Revival King Headboard - Mid 19th Century

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Description

This extraordinary mid-19th-century Gothic Revival king-size headboard embodies museum-quality craftsmanship and architectural grandeur. Hand-carved circa 1860–1880 in solid walnut (possibly … Read more This extraordinary mid-19th-century Gothic Revival king-size headboard embodies museum-quality craftsmanship and architectural grandeur. Hand-carved circa 1860–1880 in solid walnut (possibly oak), the piece features deeply pierced cathedral tracery, pointed arches, and foliate bosses—elements inspired by the graceful lines and symmetry of classic church architecture. Its imposing scale and rare king proportions, highly unusual for the period, lend it a monumental presence more akin to architectural ornament than furniture.

Originally owned by the renowned Chicago businessman and philanthropist John G. Shedd (1850–1926), founder of the Shedd Aquarium. No documentation of provenance is included.

Freestanding in construction, the headboard is designed to mount securely to a wall, with a separate bed frame positioned against it for support. Its sculptural silhouette and hand-tooled surfaces convey the artistry of a master carver working at the height of the Gothic Revival movement—an heirloom-level statement piece suitable for both period and contemporary interiors.

Dimensions: Overall 8′ W × 18.5″ D × 73″ H.
Center panel: 84.5″ W × 4″ D × 55″ H.
Side panels: 6.25″ W × 19″ D × 73″ H. See less