Brunk Auctions
Live Auction

Summer Premier Auction | July 30, 2026

Thu, Jul 30, 2026 10:00AM EDT
Lot 224

Miniature 19th Century Mechanical Invalid Bed, Probably Patent Model

Estimate: $400 - $600
Sold for

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $25
$100 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $200
$3,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$20,000 $2,000
$50,000 $5,000
$100,000 $10,000

New England or Canadian, 19th century, with modified "BANK OF UPPER CANADA 1854" coin ratchet wheels made to adjust tilt on feet and head, chamber pot drawer, turned posts, birdseye maple veneers, later cushion included, 8-1/8 x 11-1/8 x 5-1/2 in.

Provenance: Private Vermont Collection

 

Note: The post Civil War era saw growth in patents for invalid furniture, driven by the large population of wounded veterans requiring long term domestic care. Adjustable beds with integrated sanitary provisions were among the most actively patented furniture forms of the 1860s–70s.

 

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Purchased items will be available for pick up or shipping from our Asheville, North Carolina auction facility within ten business days of the auction, or will be assessed a storage fee of $5.00 per day, per item. Purchaser agrees that packing and shipping is done at the purchaser's risk and that the purchaser will pay in advance all packing expenses, materials, carrier fees and insurance charges. At our discretion, items will either be packed by an agent such as a packaging store or Brunk Auctions. Please allow two weeks for shipping after payment is received. Shipment of large items is the responsibility of the purchaser. We are happy to provide names of carriers and shippers if a purchaser so requests. Brunk Auctions will have no liability for any loss or damage to shipped items.

Private Vermont Collection

 

surface with wear and water stains to finish, cloth connecting ratcheting rods and adjustable backs/feet torn, some later wire nails to breaks at joints, post with slightly unstable split Note - Brunk Auctions makes every effort to offer accurate and thorough information, but encourages prospective bidders to inspect items in person whenever possible. Condition statements are provided as a courtesy for general guidance and should not be considered complete or definitive. They do not represent a warranty or assumption of liability by Brunk Auctions. Certain condition issues may not be specifically noted in the report but may be visible in the accompanying photographs, which are considered part of the overall condition report. Please refer to our Terms of Sale for complete information and contact us for additional photos or information as needed.