The sleigh bed has an interesting history that begins in America around 1810. This period is known as the American Empire named so for the Roman antiques being excavated at this time. The first sleigh beds were made of mahogany and the design was influenced by Napoleon’s court. In France the sleigh bed was small and designed for one person, or what we now know as a daybed. The sleigh bed of course looks like a horse pulled sleigh. It has rolled or smooth curved headboards and footboards. Modern day sleigh beds typically have a higher headboard and shorter footboard. Today sleigh beds are made of many different materials, with the most popular material being mahogany. Sleigh beds offer a classic, regal look and never go out of style.