The Omnibus passing the Three Compasses Inn, Clapton

This painting is one of a pair of omnibus paintings by James Pollard ( 1792-1857) in the Museum's collection. Single-deck omnibuses were introduced by George Shilibeer in 1829 and remained the standard type up until the 1850s when the rapidly increasing population of the metropolis created a demand for more and much bigger vehicles.

Pollard depicts a green and yellow omnibus of the early 'knifeboard' type which was characterised by a longitudinal roof seat. Drawn by two horses, which became the norm, the conductor stands on a plate at the back while passengers sit on either side of the driver and along the roof seat.

Pollard set up his own practice in 1825 but never recovered from the death of his wife and daughter in 1840 and his later works show evidence of decline. He was however valued for the accuracy of his drawing, particularly in relation to coaching subjects.