Shakespeare's 'second best bed' to be restored

An expert team of furniture conservationists have been commissioned by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust to repair the famous four poster Hathaway Bed at Anne Hathaway’s Cottage.

It has long been speculated that the bed may be the widely-debated ‘second best bed’ bequeathed to Anne by Shakespeare upon his death in 1616.

With parts dating back to the 1500s, the oak tester bed is one of the most popular objects on display at the cottage but work is now needed to repair and strengthen it.

Conservation experts will remove the posts from the bed before re-securing them to strengthen the bed frame.

For the finer details, members of Stratford Decorative and Fine Arts Society will recreate a traditional set of drapes, similar to those that may have adorned the bed in the 16 Century.

For more on this story read Thursday’s Herald.