A Sjees (from Dutch, meaning chaise) is a traditional Dutch two-wheeled carriage pulled by one or two horses, which originates from Friesland in the north of Netherlands. Also called a Friesian chaise, it resembles a chaise or gig carriage but with unique regional distinctions. The undercarriage, wooden axle, large wheels, and shafts are usually painted white. The body, which is supported on cee-springs and leather braces, has a curved dash and seats two people. Typically, the body is decorated with elaborate painting, gilding and carvings, and the upholstery is brightly colored velvet or leather.
The sjees is customarily driven by black Friesian horses, either one horse in shafts, or two on either side of a pole. The harness is a breast collar style, decorated with white trim, and white rope is used for the reins and traces.
- Sjees
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Sjees with pair of horses
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c. 1825 print depicting a sjees
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Elaborate decorations on this sjees
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References
- ^ Smith, D.J.M. (1988). A Dictionary of Horse Drawn Vehicles. J. A. Allen & Co. Ltd. p. 82. ISBN 0851314686. OL 11597864M.
- ^ Walrond, Sallie (1979). The Encyclopaedia of Driving. Country Life Books. p. 128. ISBN 0600331822. OL 4175648M.
- ^ Walrond, Sallie (1992). Looking at Carriages. pp. 104–5. ISBN 0720712823. OL 3828623M.
External links
- Short closeup video of a sjees. Netherlands. 5 June 2023. Event occurs at 7:45-8:13 – via YouTube.
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