Circa 1824, Baltimore, Maryland. John Needles was a cabinet maker in Baltimore, Maryland from 1808 until his retirement in 1853. Known for producing fine pieces of furniture in mahogany and with some examples in curly maple. The four post bed with bold stylized acorn finials on turned posts. Paneled headboard with barrel horizontal crest rail terminating in acorn finials and with original paper label affixed to center of headboard. Footboard with conforming posts and with ring-and baluster-turned blanket rail. Frame joined with a pair of sturdy cylindrical side rails. When assembled, the bed frame is mounted with three iron angled supports within which a custom made box spring may be fitted. Headboard of finely grained figural tiger maple. Posts and rails of solid stock with some figural graining, notably to blocked posts. NOTE: Bed will accommodate a full size modern mattress with custom drop in box spring. SIZE: 54″ h. Overall width 64″. Interior width 55″. Interior length 74″ post to post. 76″ interior length headboard to post. Overall exterior length 83″. CONDITION: Structurally very good. Bed retains original surface, now with mellow honey brown color and undisturbed patina. Surfaces dry and crusty in part. Label remains intact and very legible. A fine example of early American high country style bedroom furniture. Very good overall. 51911-8 (4,000-6,000)