York-London Royal Mail Horse-Drawn Coach Model
British: Late 19th Century
Painted wood with metal and other fittings
10.5 inches high, from base to hat of driver
31 x 8 x 1.5 inches, base
$2,400
Royal Mail Horse-Drawn Coach Model
British: Late 19th Century
British: Late 19th Century
Tabletop model of a York-London Royal Mail coach being driven by a coachman holding the reins of four horses poised in mid-step. The coach is painted bright red and dark brown with gold trim and the Royal Mail insignia on the door. The door opens, with the fitted interior of the coach visible. The wheels move and the coachman is not attached to the coach box and can be repositioned. The entire assembly is set on a black base.
Lightweight, fast Royal Mail coaches such as the one portrayed by this model were introduced in 1784 and operated until the 1830s, when they were gradually replaced by rail transport. In addition to carrying the mail, they also took a limited number of paying passengers. Royal Mail coaches crossing the countryside were a popular subject of early 19th century British art, portrayed by artists such as James Pollard, Henry Alken and John Cordrey.
Condition: Generally good with the usual overall toning, wear. Some chips, splitting to wood. Some abrasions and losses to paint. Some restored minor losses. Reins (strings) somewhat distressed, should be replaced.
Reference:
“Queen’s Head Stamp.” Icons: A Portrait of England. http://www.icons.org.uk/theicons/collection/queen-s-head-stamp-design/biography/postal-beginnings (18 March 2008).