Bent Bamboo Daybed

Made of bent bamboo, this southern Chinese day bed was likely the most popular piece of furniture in house. Lightweight and portable, the platform bed traveled from room to room and was even brought outdoors during the region’s sultry summers. Low to the ground, the bed was easy to clamber upon for sleeping, reading, or playing music. Using bamboo’s reticulated stems to best advantage, stout pieces form bed’s legs and low side rails, while narrower lengths were fastened together to form the apron and leg supports. An inset of crushed bamboo provides a sturdy platform. A delight in a sun room, this day bed invites indulgent lounging.