3 Browns book’d for Brighton.. and only one place.

$30.00

19th century coaching caricature. Reproduction print from a drawing by C.J. Grant. A hybrid mail/stage coach around 1830-5 (although men’s clothing period varies – as happens even now). Only the mail carried stars on each of the four upper quarter panels, and although one is shown on the right of the window, there is no royal insignia on the door, no number on the boot, and no visible lamp.

The route Brighton (and Dover/London?) appear on the door but no proprietor’s name. It was only around 1840 on that ‘outsiders’ places were provided at the back of the mail coaches, and then usually on the short day runs, such as London to Brighton. In earlier days this position was occupied only by the guard.

The passengers have left no room at the back for the guard, whereas the much sought-after place of honour beside the coachman (to which the fattest Brown is climbing) is vacant. The booking clerk (far right) is disinterested. It was not always necessary to book seats in advance, but the wise traveller did so. A young lad is carrying a box which might be the guard’s arms chest containing his blunderbuss and pistols, and seems to enjoy watching the dog biting the gaitered leg of one of the Browns. A basket has been added behind the boot for baggage, though usually it would be to a maximum height of two feet, on the roof of a stage coach.

Small Indian ink marks at base and lower right and page age-soiled. Page 51 x 38cm (20 x 15 inches). Image 325 x 470 mm (12 3/4 x 18 1/2 inches).

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