Dimensions: 30" H x 79-1/2" L x 40" D18th/19th C. RARE CHINESE ZITAN WAISTED DAYBED, TA The well-proportioned bed has a narrow waist, which supports a sturdy rectangular frame enclosing the hard mat bed. Raised on sturdy, slightly inward curving legs of square section, connected by shaped, beaded apron. The Zitan bed characterized by ruyi motif open-works pierced back splat and armrest galleries. The use of the daybed was manifold - during the day, it served as a sitting platform; at night a bed. Due to its simple design and light weight, the daybed was a versatile piece of furniture, easily suited for both indoor and outdoor purposes. Woodblock prints dating from the Ming dynasty often show scholars or ladies relaxing on daybeds in garden settings or along riverbanks.