Travelling in Style

As incredible as it may seem, Sicilian carts like this one were used for the everyday transport of goods and people.

	Sicilian cart Sicily region, Italy 1949 Used in Canada Wood, metal, leather, cloth, fur

Several artisans - cabinetmakers, blacksmiths and painters - collaborated on their production. The scenes painted on the sides were inspired by various sources: classical mythology, the Bible, history, folk tales, etc.

	Joe (Peppi) Pilliteri, past owner of the cart Photo: from the book Traditions of Our Fathers, the True Sicilians, by Peppi Pilliteri Every effort has been made to contact copyright holders. Errors and omissions will be corrected upon application by copyright holders.

	Sicilian cart (detail)

This particular cart was painted by Antonio Torrisi, who drew inspiration from the gallant deeds of the paladins of France. The images include the beautiful Angélique at Charlemagne's court, Charlemagne entering Paris, the death of Oliver, and the ghost of Roland giving his legendary Durendal sword to Charlemagne.

(1) The beautiful Angélique at Charlemagne's court (2) Charlemagne entering Paris (3) The death of Oliver (4) Ghost of Roland giving his legendary Durendal sword to Charlemagne

Below the back panel, there is magnificent wrought ironwork depicting the family trees of two families joined by marriage.