Danish built Landau Carriage circa 1900

Named after the German city of Landau where they were first made in any number, the word 'Landau' is a coachbuilding term for a type of four-wheeled, convertible vehicle drawn by a pair or four-in-hand horses. It was a luxury city carriage and the low shell was designed for maximum visibility for the occupants and, more importantly of the occupants, which explains why this design became popular for civic occasions and ceremonial events. With comfortable facing seats, a low entry step and a multi-position folding top it's easy to see why this type of vehicle became popular amongst the well to do as recreational transport, or for simply 'showing off'.

This wonderful 'Landau' for sale today was, we understand, built around 1900 by the coachbuilders 'Peterson' here in Aarhus. It appears to have been fully restored on a 'no expense spared' basis and is absolutely stunning. It has space for four inside on facing seats, two drivers and a 'dickey' seat at the rear, presumably for a Guard. The spoked wheels run on rubber and the whole carriage is suspended on 'cart' springs and looks very comfortable. The interior looks plush in a button-back Cranberry velour and the complex folding hood is in black leather. The main body of the vehicle is painted in Black with Burgundy panels and the finish is deeply glossy. Naturally there are 'Coach Lines' throughout'.

The return of this historic Landau to its best has obviously been a 'labour of love' for someone, and we understand that the guide price is far below what the restoration cost. Not the sort of vehicle we normally sell but a wonderful addition to any collection of important vehicles, and should the Royal Family pop in for tea, you can offer them a lift home without embarrassment!