18th Century (end)
Ceremonial vehicle.
Portuguese.
Inv. nº 39
Dim: 567x189x275 cm


It is assumed that this Berlin was used in 1790 by Queen Maria I during the ceremony of the consecration of the Basílica da Estrela in Lisbon.

The pattern of the body is a transition between the Coach and the Berlin, sculpted elements combine the French styles of Louis XIV and Louis XV.

On the roof there are the Portuguese coat of arms and the initials M.P.R.P. On the body panels there are paintings by Pedro Alexandrino de Carvalho.

On the upper part of the rear panel there are figures of Apollo in his vehicle surrounded by the Muses, figures of Geometry and Astronomy; below there are the figures of Architecture and Sculpture being rewarded.

The carved woodwork is attributed to Silvestre Faria Lobo and Barros Laborão.

The suspension uses the Berlin method (a body suspended by two strong straps of leather stretched longitudinally between the wheels through a “cric”, a rolling-up mechanism, with a rack-rail brake installed on the rear set).

The Berlin was pulled by six horses.