Four-poster bed from Bürglen Castle TG from 1691

In noble households, the bedroom also serves as a prestigious reception room. This richly carved state bed is that of the master of the house, the St. Gallen bailiff Lorenz Werder.

Swiss National Museum

Four-poster bed from Zurich, 1700-1735

The sculptural carved furniture of the 17th century is superseded by pieces faced with precious polished veneers. At the beginning of the 18th century, furniture with undulating surfaces – so-called Wellenmöbel (‘wave furniture’) – is typical in Zurich.

Swiss National Museum

Marriage bed from 1767

The bride brings to the marriage the double bed and the linen cupboard. This bed is lavishly painted in a local folk art style that incorporates verses of Scripture and other inscriptions.

Swiss National Museum

Wedding cabinet from 1782

The inscription states that the cabinet was made for the marriage of Catharina Müller and Mathias Hörler in 1782. The painted Rocaille decoration is evocative of the Rococo period; the figurative representations depict the legend of William Tell.

Swiss National Museum

Commode, 1775-1800

A chair-like construction conceals the chamber pot. For a long time, the mobile toilet is a night-time alternative to the hygienic water closet, which is connected to the sewer system.

Swiss National Museum

Single bed from 1830

This narrow bed in the form of a ship is typical of the early 19th century. It is intended for one person. Two identical beds can be pushed together to create a double bed.

Swiss National Museum

A view of the exhibition.

© Swiss National Museum

A view of the exhibition.

© Swiss National Museum

A view of the exhibition.

© Swiss National Museum

A view of the exhibition.

© Swiss National Museum