Just looking at canopy beds reminds us of Medieval times...

....castles, kings and queens. We have all seen them in the movies covered by luxurious quilts and delicate curtains. Actually, canopy beds began their existence as the beds of common people, who just needed the drapes as an additional layer of shelter that could protect their sleep from objects falling from above. In the Middle Ages, they were, indeed, used by noblemen, such as lords or kings, but they didn’t precisely search for elegance. At least, not as much as a little privacy, since they often had to share the room with their servants and attendants. The curtains and draperies were then put up in the poles to provide them an added degree of intimacy. In fact, until the 16th century, these beds, even those of the nobles, remained fairly plain and understated.
In the Renaissance, canopy beds were developed and improved as regards the artistic designs are concerned. Their wooden headboard would be designed with creative and arty carvings, which were also made in the poles and beams. As years went by, a few other patterns and decorations were added to these beds.
Today, we can find two main styles of canopy beds in the market: traditional or modern. While the conventional types are usually based on the Victorian fashion, the contemporary beds sport a simpler and cleaner design, such as a geometric one. Traditional beds are composed of cast iron or wooden frames, or metal posts, and heavy fabrics are employed for the draping. Contemporary canopy beds employ wood, iron or metal frames or even a combination of both. They have little or no detail at all on the foot and headboard. The first style is ideal for a classic decoration, and the second is the choice for those who prefer a minimalist look....read more... http://www.hubpages.com/hub/canopy-beds