By the late 1880s the Spider Phaeton was considered the most suitable owner-driven carriage for fashionable young men. The design came from America and used a different construction to other phaetons. The seat was built over an open framework and not over a boot. This allowed no space for luggage, making it useful for only the shortest of journeys.

Spider phaetons were light and stylish and were almost entirely used for park and show ring driving. They were usually drawn by a pair and were ideal for showing off fine well bred horses. The equivalent of today’s nippy little sports car!

Made by Holmes of Derby and London, this Spider Phaeton comes from the collection of the 20th Earl of Shrewsbury.

Accession Number : 64.064.0011