ONE of the most complete surviving examples of Elizabethan beds ever recorded is to head to auction. Once found at the historic Godolphin House in Helston, the rare, decoratively carved item dates from circa 1580 and is a prime example of a ‘tester’ bed - a type of four-poster bed with a canopy extending over the entire sleeping area, supported by posts at each corner.

The bed is richly carved throughout with its panelled tester decorated with flowerheads within guilloche-carved rails and motifs repeated across the cornice and frieze. Its headboard is framed with arcaded panels and acanthus uprights, while the robust end posts are adorned with jewelled strapwork, gadrooned cup-and-cover turnings and intricately worked plinths.

“This virtually untouched Elizabethan bed is an extraordinary survival,” said David Houlson, Oak consultant to Woolley and Wallis auctioneers. “While most beds of the Elizabethan period have been modified to fit modern dimensions and changing fashions, this example remains in its original, generous proportions, making it exceptionally rare.

“Its extensive decoration suggests it was almost certainly created as a standout piece, privately commissioned by a noble family. With a provenance rooted in Godolphin House for over a century, it stands as a remarkable testament to craftsmanship, heritage and enduring prestige.”

Godolphin has stood for centuries as a symbol of power, wealth and heritage in Cornwall. First transformed by John Godolphin I and his son in the late 15th century, the estate grew alongside the family’s prosperity, largely funded by tin mining. Successive generations expanded both their influence and the house itself, with Sir William Godolphin I rising to prominence under King Henry VIII and his descendants serving at Court, commanding in battle and leaving their mark on national politics.

By the 17th century, Godolphin reflected the family’s wealth and cultural standing, with Francis Godolphin III introducing cutting-edge classical Italian architecture. During the Civil War, the estate played host to the Prince of Wales in his escape to Scilly. Sidney Godolphin, 1st Earl and Lord Treasurer to Queen Anne, later steered the nation’s finances through war and trade negotiations, cementing the family’s legacy on the national stage.

During the 18th century, the family increasingly favoured homes nearer London. By 1804, parts of the great house had been demolished and over the following century, it was adapted by farming families who left their own mark on its buildings and gardens.

In 1937, Sydney and Mary Schofield dedicated themselves to conserving the estate, reopening it to the public and rescuing lost architectural features. Their son John continued the work, but the scale of repair needed was immense. Acquisition by the National Trust in 2007 secured Godolphin’s future through extensive conservation of its buildings, farm and gardens.

The bed will be offered as lot 914 in Woolley and Wallis auctioneers Age of Oak, Carpets & textiles sale on Thursday, October 2 with an estimate of between £20,000 and £30,000.

Mr Houlson added: “This auction offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to acquire a tangible piece of Cornwall’s heritage, directly connected to one of its most storied houses and we therefore anticipate wide interest.”