Napoleon’s carriage became a highly prized possession after his defeat at the Battle of Waterloo. After accompanying him on many military campaigns, it was seized as one of the spoils of war and later exhibited in London. Other memorabilia from the Battle were also in great demand.
“On Friday, Buonaparté’s carriage taken at Waterloo, recently brought to this country, was exhibited to the Regent at Carlton-house, in its complete state, accompanied by the officers who took it, and a number of English and foreigners of distinction. The driver, in his full dress, sitting on the near pole horse, drives the four horses with a whip, the thong of which is about three yards long ; but he manages the horses principally by talking to them. The two leading horses are at such a distance from the other two, that there is nearly room for two more. The horses are good stout dark bays, of English cut and appearance, very like a mail-coach set of the best description.”
Stamford Mercury, 10th November 1815