“Swan and Hound” Sleigh

Description

Of all the figural sleighs of the 18th century, those shaped like animals were among the most popular. This one combines two completely different beasts in a single vehicle. The passenger, a lady, was seated facing to one side inside the swan at the front, while the coachman sat astride the hunting hound at the rear. The colourful figures grow out of a rump ornamented in typical Rococo fashion. The rear shell of the swan is also decorated with chinoiserie – two figures in a Chinese temple – which at the time was very much en vogue. The chassis probably postdates the animals, but is also a fine piece of workmanship, as is evident from the two fish carved into the splash board at the front. The large box on the side of the swan is a later addition whose purpose was to keep the feet clean and dry.