A Full-Size Late Victorian Green & Gold Painted Sleigh; Ex Harrods Department Store c.1895

Object Description

The green and gold Harrod’s livery painted pine full sized sleigh, dating to the late Victorian period, to suit 12hh single or pair, the exterior adorned with applique decorated stars, with the interior having a gold lining and green patterned upholstery to the upholstery and the carcass fixed onto a black skirted undercarriage to conceal four large wheeled castors for modern parade road use; the sleigh originally used for a Harrods Christmas display and pulled by a team of reindeer.

Object History

Ex Harrods.

Object Literature

Harrods opened in Knightsbridge, London in 1849 and needs no introduction being the largest department store in Europe and laying claim to having its own unique postcode, SW1X 7XL. As with most success stories, the history of Harrods isn’t without its setbacks. On the 6th of December 1883, a fire gutted the shop, burning it to the ground. Despite this, Harrods still managed to deliver clients’ orders in time for Christmas, promoting goodwill among customers.

An iconic Christmas piece from an iconic Christmas brand, and an original piece of festive Victoriana to boot.

Object Condition

She remains in a good untouched and original state. The green and gold Harrod’s finish is worn in some areas, as photographed and in all in the right places, as per Santa’s use. The carcass is certainly at least c.1900 in date, with the paintwork and upholstery having been refreshed over the years. We would think this piece must have been re-painted around the 1980s and she appears to have been painted red formerly. The present colour is also of course not just synonymous with Christmas but also the brand, being Harrods Green Pantone 574C. The seat cushions still appear to have the original iron work springs within and the panelled pine wood floor is all original and has been oiled to bring its colour back, with the paintwork and rubber undercarriage also having been cleaned and refreshed. The three wheels make her path/road worthy and she turns on an axis but they could be removed of course. The decorations pictured were also used in the original Harrods display and will be provided if so desired.

Object Details