The House of Miniatures

THoM Product # 40035 - Hooded Cradle

Catalog Description: During Colonial times, infants were gently lulled to sleep and protected from drafts in cradles such as the original of this endearing miniature. Circa 1750.

Circa: 1750

Style: Queen Anne

Period: Colonial

Design © 1977

Cradles were constructed in a wide variety of designs and sizes. They were usually made in the home by the father or grandfather of the newborn child, or made locally by the town craftsman. The two most common designs were the rocking cradle similar to the one we have reproduced in miniature and the swinging, or suspended, cradle. Some versions had spindle sides and ends, while most were of either solid or paneled construction. Decorations on the cradles were as varied as the designs of the cradles themselves and ranged from the plain, to painted, to richly carved. Compared to our modern concept of decorating a child's room, the designs on a child's cradle in the 18th century tended to be very heavy and severe, designed to impress the adult with the skill of the craftsman rather than to delight the eye of the child as he became aware of his surroundings. The Puritan outlook on life was often, quite literally, a condition that existed from the cradle to the grave. This severeness of design, however, is one of the qualities that make these cradles a much sought after item among antique collectors today. Their contrast with today's frills, bows, and bright colors is so marked that it is very appealing to those appreciative of the craftsmanship of yesteryear.

Links To Articles and Offerings