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Draisienne or velocipede shown replacing horses in the French post service, 1818
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Draisienne or velocipede shown replacing horses in the French post service, 1818
Draisienne or velocipede, France, 1818. The Draisienne was the forerunner of the bicycle and was invented by Baron von Drais in France in 1817. It was introduced to England the following year by Denis Johnson, a coachmaker of Long Acre, London, and was known in Britain as a dandy or hobby horse. Draisiennes had no pedals or brakes, but were propelled by the rider pushing on the ground with his feet, and dragging the feet to slow the machine. This print may depict a servant of Baron von Drais setting off on a trip into the countryside outside Paris
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Media ID 14840305
© Oxford Science Archive / Heritage-Images
Baron Karl Von Drais Bicycle Bicycles Bike Cycling Drais Hobby Horse Innovation Mail Muddy Oxford Science Archive Pedestrian Hobbyhorse Spokes Wheel
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the revolutionary Draisienne or velocipede, a groundbreaking invention that replaced horses in the French post service during the early 19th century. Invented by Baron Karl von Drais of France in 1817, this two-wheeled vehicle served as the precursor to modern bicycles. The image depicts a servant of Baron von Drais embarking on a countryside journey outside Paris, highlighting the practicality and versatility of this new mode of transportation. The Draisienne featured no pedals or brakes but relied on the rider's feet pushing against the ground for propulsion and dragging their feet to slow down. This lithograph captures both its innovative design and comical nature with its cartoon-like depiction. The muddy terrain adds an element of realism, emphasizing how these vehicles were used even in challenging conditions. As an important symbol of technological advancement and societal progress, this print represents not only a significant development in transportation but also reflects changing attitudes towards mobility during that era. It serves as a testament to human ingenuity and our constant pursuit of finding more efficient ways to communicate and travel. With its vibrant colors and intricate details, this artwork offers us a glimpse into history while reminding us of how far we have come since then. It is indeed fascinating to witness how one man's invention could revolutionize an entire industry and pave the way for future innovations in road transport.
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