<P> In the 12th century , luxury increased and bedsteads were made of wood much decorated with inlaid , carved , and painted ornamentation . They also used folding beds , which served as couches by day and had cushions covered with silk laid upon leather . At night a linen sheet was spread and pillows placed , while silk - covered skins served as coverlets . The Carolingian manuscripts show metal bedsteads much higher at the head than at the feet , and this shape continued in use until the 13th century in France , many cushions being added to raise the body to a sloping position . In 12th - century manuscripts , the bedsteads appear much richer , with inlays , carving , and painting , and with embroidered coverlets and mattresses in harmony . Curtains were hung above the bed and a small hanging lamp is often shown . </P>
when did beds become popular in france and germany
the 12th century