Barouche

A barouche is a four-wheeled carriage, typically open-topped, with a collapsible hood over the rear seat. It was a popular and elegant carriage style in the 18th and 19th centuries, used primarily for leisure and social events, rather than heavy transport.

The defining features of a barouche include:

• Two Seats: Designed to comfortably accommodate four passengers, facing each other in pairs on two transverse seats.
• Open Design: The main section is usually open to the air, providing an unobstructed view.
• Collapsible Hood: A folding or collapsible hood (also called a calash top) covers the rear seat, offering some protection from the elements when needed. This hood could be raised or lowered relatively easily.
• Coachman's Seat: A separate, elevated seat is positioned at the front for the coachman and often a footman.
• Suspension: Sophisticated suspension systems, such as C-springs or elliptic springs, were used to provide a smoother ride compared to earlier carriage designs.
• Ornamentation: Barouches were often elaborately decorated, reflecting the wealth and status of their owners.

The barouche was a symbol of wealth and status, frequently associated with the aristocracy and upper classes. It was often used for leisurely drives in parks, attending social gatherings, and making public appearances. The name may derive from the Italian "biroccio", a type of two-wheeled cart. The barouche is distinct from other carriage types like the landau (which typically had two folding hoods), the phaeton (lighter and sportier), and the brougham (enclosed carriage). The decline of the barouche coincided with the rise of the automobile in the early 20th century.