Personal Driving Phaeton of Emperor Franz II/I

Due to its lavish fittings with a gilt swan-neck chassis, C-shaped springs, folding hood, footman rear step and exquisite decor, this was one of the festive court carriages. However, it was used as a leisure time carriage which the Kaiser himself drove from his seat. A coachman and footman road along on the rear step. If necessary the coachman could drive the carriage from the hardly noticeable emergency seat to the front of the coach box. © Monica Kurzel-Runtscheiner: Crane Neck and Gold Crepine. Courtly Splendour and Contemporary art – a confrontation,
Exhibition Catalogue, Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna 2004