Invalid chair
Unknown [name retired]
Category
Carriages & other vehicles
Date
1920
Materials
Iron, wickerwork, birch?, rubber, brass, rexine, braid
Measurements
98.0 x 160.0 x 68.5 cm
Order this imageCollection
Castle Drogo, Devon
NT 904258
Caption
This is an elegant Bath Chair and slightly unusual as its body is made of basketwork, this suggests that it may have been for summer use only. The bath chair was devised by James Heath of Bath, in about 1750 as a discreet mode of transport for ladies and invalids. It rivalled the sedan chair and ultimately superseded it as a form of conveyance. It was steered by the occupant with an attendant on foot pushing from behind.
Summary
Bath Chair built by an unknown builder. Bath Chair (three wheels) propelled by an attendant. This carriage has a body made of basketwork mounted on an iron frame. The steering tiller and pushing handle are of turned wood. Upholstered in black leatherette. The ironwork frame is painted black with red lining.
Full description
This is an elegant Bath Chair and slightly unusual as its body is made of basketwork, this suggests that it may have been for summer use only. The bath chair was devised by James Heath of Bath, in about 1750 as a discreet mode of transport for ladies and invalids. It rivalled the sedan chair and ultimately superseded it as a form of conveyance. It was steered by the occupant with an attendant on foot pushing from behind.
Provenance
This item forms part of the original Drewe family collection at Castle Drogo. It was transferred to the National Trust in 2008.
Marks and inscriptions
n
Makers and roles
Unknown [name retired], coach builder