What to look for:
Genuine Brass from Fashion Bed Group
The entire bed will be produced from this semiprecious metal. It is an alloy of 70% copper and 30% zinc. All of the beds have a baked on epoxy lacquer clear coat which will prevent tarnishing for years. As opposed to the less expensive plated brass beds, these should actually appreciate in value over time – to become a family heirloom for generation after generation to enjoy.
Lustre Brass from Fashion Bed Group
A term trademarked by Fashion Bed Group in the early 1990's. As the marketplace demanded less expensive brass plated beds, we knew we needed to get our story across that our brass plating was vastly superior to many of the lower quality imported lines - hence, the name. It is a different process in that the steel tubing goes through many more washing and polishing steps. We also then first plate nickel onto the tubing before plating the thin layer of brass. This does two things: 1) It allows for a much more durable bonding between the brass and the tubing to prevent flaking and peeling. 2) It provides a much more "depth of finish" to the finished product which makes it look very similar to its more expensive genuine brass counterpart. All of the beds are also totally made from steel - many cheaper versions have several plastic connectors, finials, etc. The finished product is then also coated with the same baked on epoxy lacquer finish to prevent darkening - others will simply use a spray on lacquer which will loose its protective properties with time.
Wesley Allen's Exclusive PowerBond Aged Brass Finish
Without a doubt, the most durable finish available on any bed. Powder paint specifically prepared for each bed is electrostatically applied by expert colorists to meet or exceed the highest standards. The bed is then baked in specialty ovens where extremely high temperatures produce a PowerBond finish of supierior durability and richness. The character of your Wesley Allen bed comes to life as talented artisans create the finish on the bed you've selected. Each finish is hand-applied, layer upon layer, to create a distinctive look that is yours, and yours alone. From start to finish, the Wesley Allen iron bed you purchase is truly one-of-a-kind.
The timeless designs of these Brass Beds will compliment any décor from antique to modern, even blending naturally with existing bedroom furnishings. Perfect for historically renovated homes! The popularity of brass beds during the last two centuries cover a range of design styles-Traditional, Art Deco, Art Nouveau, Victorian, and Edwardian. The use of brass for making beds, gained prestige in the 19th century, and eventually, the demand for brass surpassed that of wood beds. Initially simple, they evolved to more elaborate styles reflecting the lavishness of the Victorian Age. The brass bed has proven it can stand the test of time, making it an instant classic.
