3: 18th-Century Carriages

Four-seater berlin

1763-64

Russia(?)

500x200x230 cm

Wood, iron, steel, bronze, silk, leather, glass, mother of pearl; woodcarving, casting, chasing, forging, gilding, oil painting, colouring, embroidery, weaving

This carriage was commissioned by Count Grigory Orlov in 1763 by an unknown craftsman who evidently worked in St Petersburg, in the workshops of the Court Stables. In 1765 Grigory Orlov presented this vehicle to Empress Catherine II. In the 19th century it was used in almost all formal excursions during the coronation ceremonies. The panels of the body carry compositions on allegorical themes painted by Gravelot.