Antique French Sedan Chair display case - Palanquin Litter carriage
A rare antique French display case modelled in the form of a Sedan Chair Litter.
A Litter (or Palanquin) is an antiquated vehicle, consisting of a box that would be carried by porters holding two poles either side. Common across Europe for hundreds of years and particularly popular with Nobles and Royalty, Sedan Chairs were a top mode of transport in cities before the roads could accommodate horses en masse, and were even licenced like carriages and taxis throughout the 17th, 18th and 19th Centuries.
This beautifully constructed case is 19thC but modelled in the 18thC style. It has a serpentine back panel, an opening door which can be secured by the rotating latch handle and bevel edged glass window panes.
Inside is the original glass shelf, which has a wavy front edge and is angled down towards the front. The panels bear the original silk covering inside and out, which on the outside is embroidered with delicate flowers & birds and reinforced with webbing on the edges. On each side are wooden cleat blocks, where the imagined carrying poles would slot into for transport by the porters.
Dimensions:
19.5cm x 15.5cm
31cm tall
Condition:
In original 'as found' condition. The silk lining is discoloured with age and some water staining, particularly on the back side. There is some fraying and splits to the silk places, particularly the inside door lining, with some of the edges of the webbing also lifting. Otherwise in lovely, honest condition with patination, wear, marks and signs of age. The glass is all in great condition with no damage.
International buyers & combined shipping
International buyers (outside of the UK) - When you add an item to your cart you can select a shipping destination and the postage will be calculated. Usually this is correct, but for multiple purchases and larger items it is advisable to enquire before purchasing, as shipping is based on rough estimates to different regions and may vary to that stated. You may 'buy it now' with the shipping cost calculated, but if this is incorrect we may contact you after purchase. We will either issue a refund for the difference, or request for a remaining postage balance to be paid, either way we will always contact you before any changes are made. Our standard postage costs include tracking where possible and usually require a signature upon receipt, please also include a contact phone number when ordering. Postage to P.O. boxes must be enquired about before purchase as many shippers do not deliver to them.
*Multiple purchases - If you would like to purchase multiple items we can usually combine shipping. It is best to message us first for a shipping quote, but to avoid missing out you can purchase items through the website immediately without paying a shipping fee. Add the desired pieces to your cart, then view your cart and in order summary there is a drop down menu with postage options. Select *Multiple purchases & combined shipping* and the shipping price will be removed. You can now pay for your selected items and we will contact you with a shipping quote to then be paid separately.