Albany Cutter or Porsche Boxter?

The Albany Cutter is a real crowd pleaser when it comes to sleighs. The elegant sporty lines and the often flamboyant art was the signature of the Albany. They were fast and sleek. Not necessarily built for comfort but more for speed.



I always equate the Albany Sleigh to a sports car. A Porsche Boxter. Nimble, quick, light and all about style. Elegant flowing lines that look fast even when it’s standing still.



Extensive amounts of hand painted artwork and striping are synonymous with the Albany Cutter. What might be described as rosemaling is often used in the panels of the body.



We restored this sleigh a few years ago and it now resides in Northern Wisconsin. The mohair upholstery is plush and traditional.



This particular sleigh had it’s original artwork intact prior to the restoration. The scrolling decoration on the sides culminating with the buck deer is recreated from the original.



I have always considered sleighs a work of art. Not just in the surface treatments of artwork that decorate the body but as an art form in themselves. The grace of the body and how they flow with the runners is beautiful. The skills needed to produce an Albany Cutter at the turn of the last century were remarkable. The entire body of this vehicle is made of steam bent wood. Fitting and joining the bent wood panels into not only a work of art but a functional form of transportation is quite a feat.

Have a great day.

Best!
Todd