Overview
A wonderful example of early mobile childcare technology, featuring a collapsible steel frame, spoked wheels, and a heavy canvas sling seat.
Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A wonderful example of early mobile childcare technology, featuring a collapsible steel frame, spoked wheels, and a heavy canvas sling seat.
Story
The early 1900s saw a radical shift in how families moved through the world, as the heavy, coach-like prams of the 19th century gave way to these nimble 'go-carts.'
Maker / Origin
While several companies used the 'L.B.' initials, the design is highly consistent with the Lloyd Manufacturing Company, founded by Marshall Burns Lloyd.
Condition & Value
The metal frame shows expected surface oxidation and the wooden handle has a lovely aged patina. However, the canvas seat is heavily faded and shows tearing/weakness at the stress points, which is common for textiles of this age.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Regional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375