Casgliadau Arlein

child's pushchair; wooden bodywork, curved at sides; painted dark blue with fine yellow lining; black leathercloth upholstery (in very poor condition) ; deep buttoned back, cushion missing; foot rest covered with oilcloth (not original) ; metal springs, rear axle and arms to support handle (handle a replacement) ; 2 rear wooden wheels, with iron tyres, painted dull red at a later date; as is single front wheel, with turned hub, wooden spokes & iron rim; leather restraining straps added at a later date

Perambulators, or prams were developed following the realisation that fresh air was beneficial to a child’s health. The first pram factory opened in England in 1840 and produced 3-wheeled vehicles based on the design of invalid chairs (it was illegal to use four-wheels on a pavement). They were seen as status-symbols as only few could afford them, such as royalty and gentry. This early type was only suitable for children who could already sit-up – like the push-chairs of today, but they were not very safe and must have been quite uncomfortable. This is an early three-wheeled example which dates to around 1860-80.