Lot 1057: Fisher Body Craftsman’s Guild Napoleonic Coach Model

Fisher Body Craftsman’s Guild Napoleonic Coach model carriage, comprised of red, black, and gilt-painted chassis, coachman’s seat, and tug line; light blue and gilt-painted, rubber strap-suspended body with tassels; fully lined velvet and ribbon passenger compartment; and velvet coachman’s cover with beaded tassels, all with fully articulated pieces. Marked “F” on hubs and shields on doors. Carriage approx. 10 1/4 in. H x 17 in. W (without tug line) x 29 1/2 in. L (with tug line) x 8 in. W. 1st half of 20th century.  Historical Note: Beginning in the 1930s, the Fisher Body Company, working with General Motors in Detroit and Oshawa, held design competitions for teenage students. Early contestants built models of the company’s signature Napoleonic Carriage. The Fisher Body Craftsman’s Guild became a key way to recruit young artistic talent, awarding twenty-four annual scholarships to boys aged 12–16 across Canada and the United States, ranging from $500 to $5,000 in 1933.

PROVENANCE:

Estate of Dr. Allen E. Johnson.

CONDITION:

One rear brace is a new resin cast replacement. Some top gallery ornamentation are cast resin replacements. The velvet fabric shows fading. The left door is inoperable. Includes miscellaneous associated pieces.