• • "She likes everything massive," noted the journalist. "Her furniture, bed, even her car is larger than the average. The swan bed used onstage in Diamond Lil was taken from her home. Formerly it belonged to Diamond Jim Brady. ..."
• • When it was time to recreate the Bowery on the stage of the Royale Theatre in 1928, Mae West opted for a stylish version of her mother's era. Broadway's set designer August Vimnera equipped the saloon with an old-fashioned piano and situated Lil's upstairs dressing room in a way that guaranteed opportunities for grand sweeping entrances.
• • Onstage, Diamond Lil reclines in a gilded swan-shaped bed. Formerly, it belonged to the turn-of-the-century actress Amelia Bingham [1869 — 1927]. Mae said she purchased it from the estate of Diamond Jim Brady [1856 — 1917].
• • The swan bed made its way into the Paramount Pictures production of "She Done Him Wrong" as well.
• • During the week when carollers are singing about the "Twelve Days of Christmas" and the partridge in a pear tree, Mae West's languid pose with the swan seems so festive.
• • Question: what became of this famous swan bed? Who owns it now?
• • Come up and see Mae every day online: http://MaeWest.blogspot.com/
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Mae West
• • Photograph: Mae West • • 1932 • •
NYC
Mae West.
If anyone cares I know where the swan bed is now. It is still together and stored in a garage in Mendocino Ca.
ReplyDeleteWow what a beautiful bed, I'm glad it's still together. Do you know if it needs restoration? Is it for sale?
ReplyDeleteMichelle
• • It's been said the bed is being stored in Mendocino, California.
ReplyDelete• • However, two Mae-mavens have reported it is in shabby condition and it needs a LOT OF RESTORATION to bring it back.
• • Check California auction listings. Good luck.
What is the address of the garage in Mendocino?
ReplyDeleteYes, I am the proud owner of this bed and am currently in the process of restoring it.
ReplyDeleteCould you show us a picture?
Delete