18th Century (Qing period); wood and bamboo construction, metal details.
This horse-drawn carriage is the kind high officials used for long journeys to go to the Imperial Palace to pay homage to the emperor. The lattice work on the carriage sides and back is made of bamboo, which is known to be very strong. The 50″ diameter metal and wood spoke wheels appear to have run over centuries-old cobblestone roads, accumulating much character. The wheel is an awesome relic by itself!
This is a carriage for long travels by an official and not as marriage cart for a bride as it would be considered too rugged for a lady to be carried on her wedding day. There is a narrow, lidded compartment on the front part of the seat platform for the official to keep his small personal belongings. This carriage is in excellent condition, waiting for a horse and leader!
