Majesty & Modesty

Imperial Carriage Museum Vienna

At the Imperial Carriage Museum in Vienna displays of carriages and clothing will focus on how the image of the emperor was carefully staged in all its aspects, ranging from opulent pomp to an almost un-imperial modesty. Franz Joseph’s personal preference for frugality, which the monarch made no secret of, can be seen from several of the vehicles he used and contrasts starkly with the enormous sums expended on running the court stables or on his personal security when he was out driving. Featuring original state coaches, magnificent trappings, exquisite gala dress and court liveries, this part of the Emperor Franz Joseph centenary exhibition will illustrate not only various ceremonial events such as state visits, celebrations of the imperial orders or the Corpus Christi procession but also how carriages were used in everyday activities. In addition, three major ceremonial events from the monarch’s long life will be focused on: his wedding to Elisabeth (1854), his coronation in Hungary (1867) and his funeral (1916). Many bystanders at the time felt they were witnessing not only the funeral of a long-serving monarch but the demise of an entire epoch.

Imperial Carriage Museum Vienna: approx. 640 m² with approx. 165 exhibits