In each issue, the bimonthly DAR magazine, American Spirit, highlights an object from the DAR Museum collection in its "National Treasures" feature. These objects, often recent accessions or important pieces in the current exhibit, always have a story to tell about American history.
Getting Warmer
With no electric blankets or heating pads to warm up cold beds during 18th-century winter nights, comfort was often provided by a bed warmer. At the end of its long handle, the warmer held a metal pan filled with hot coals and fitted with a lid. The warmer was placed underneath or smoothed over bed coverings.
The DAR Museum’s example was probably made in the Netherlands. Both practical and beautiful, it features a brass lid with decorative piercing and small etched images, including a tiny duck (bottom center). The central design depicts a vase filled and surrounded by elaborate scrolled foliage.
Volume 144, Number 6, November/December 2010, Page 9
Photography by Scott Braman
Reviving the Stone
A Record to Remember
Strong Set
Fashion Flashback
Dairy Delights
Let's Go Ride a Bike
Rock-a-Bye
Isn't It Romantic
A Rockin' Good Toy
The Mystery of Mother and Child
Keep Cool
Dress for the Ages
Historical Register
Banjo Time
Virginia Map Quest
Serve It Up
Greatest Toy on Earth
Dress for the Day
Boston Uncommon
A Teapot to Revere
Seats of Honor
Birthday Threads
Clockwork
Play On
Top Drawer
Burning Bright
Seated in Revolution
Something to Crow About
Sister Stitch
Tea Time
Capturing Cherubs
A Link to the Past
Brushes with Fame
Something Borrowed
Supper Is Served
Stately Seats
Heirloom High Chest
Making Beautiful Music
Forged From Fire
For Madame's Trousseau
Let It Out
Heavenly Harmonies
Priceless Pooch
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