Four-poster beds in the past generally consisted of a huge honking oak frame with a canopy (called a "tester") on the top and drapes on the sides. These beds originated in the 15th Century and were use primarily by the aristocracy and royalty. Although the canopy and drapes did protect the sleeper from drafts to a certain extent, their primary purpose was to keep insects and bird feces off of the bedclothes. Remember, the average palace was not well insulated, and the various windows (many without glass), archers' slits, chimneys, and gaps between the stones provided easy access for all sorts of winged and non-winged beasties.
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