510.00 USD
This British army foldable campaign cot from World War II is a design landmark. The cot is constructed with interlocked foldable wooden frames, held together with metal structures. A canvas sheet connects to the frames to form a stable, comfortable sleeping surface. The structure of this camp cot has a particularly innovative and ingenious design. The wooden frame can be folded into a compact cylindrical form that opens out to form the elongated cot structure. The movements involved in opening and expanding the frame are a pleasure to experience and reveal the intricate detailing of the metal swivel joints. The sophistication of this design is seldom seen in modern day portable furniture. A true piece of 20th century history and a great collectible that has timeless sculptural and versatile aspects to it – the cot can just as easily be imagined in a campsite as in a modern day home as a contemporary piece of furniture.
Dimensions
H 53.0 cm x D 74.0 cm cm x W 166.5 cm (H 20.8” X D 29.1” X W 65.5”)
Period
World War II (1940s)
History
Foldable campaign cots of this design were first used by British officers in the Boer War (1899-1902). Subsequently, these cots were used in World War I and II by British and American troops. British army officers saw no reason to leave their comfort and luxury behind when they were fighting a war and it is said that they could design an entire bedroom to fit into a few trunks.
Provenance
Discovered in a warehouse in Bangalore, this campaign cot most likely belonged to an army officer who returned to Bangalore after the war.
Condition
Good restored condition. A couple of wooden connecting rods on the side were missing from the original and have been replaced with new replicas. The original canvas has been replaced by a new one.
Shipping
Ships worldwide with FedEx International Economy shipping. Expected delivery time after dispatch is 5-7 days.