Omnibus et fiacres 1895 - 1905

Frédéric Houbron made this drawing, titled "Omnibus et fiacres," likely in the late 19th century. During that time, urban transport was rapidly evolving, and the omnibus and fiacre were common sights in cities like Paris. Houbron captures the energy of urban life, but also hints at social stratification. On top of the omnibus we see what appears to be a worker, but in the fiacre a top hatted man occupies the seat. What is so interesting about these works is Houbron's ability to capture people in transit. While these modes of transport offered new opportunities for mobility, they also reinforced existing class divisions, with the wealthy able to afford private transportation while the working class relied on crowded public options. Houbron's sketch captures these differences, inviting us to consider the social dynamics embedded in the urban landscape. What does it mean to be stuck in transit with members of different socioeconomic classes?