Dear Anna,
I voted for your post, reblogged, shared on Twitter and commented. But my comment has disappeared. It was so late at night that perhaps I forgot to 'post'. Oh well, here I go again :)

Transportation and history. Along with communication, one of the drivers of progress. I was struck by this line:

The monarchy thus relied on a vehicle that was already obsolete at the time.

This old world mindset would very dramatically be ruptured by WWI. It's interesting how that war changed the world order, drove reluctant regimes suddenly into modern times.

Your pictures are brilliant. The Imperial carriages are amazing. Almost grotesquely ornate...highlights the privilege of both wealth and position enjoyed by royalty. (Of course, today's private jets are equally dramatic reminders of wealth disparity).

I found your narrative to be very insightful, and informative. Thank you so much for another brilliant blog. Be well and peaceful.

Respectfully and affectionately,
AG