October Fall Classic
Lot 1212f:
Description
This is a fantastic grouping of classic mid-century American automotive mascots, with a touch of British elegance. The lot includes four chrome-plated metal hood ornaments: a stylized eagle-in-flight (likely 1950 Chevrolet), a beautiful Spirit of Ecstasy flying lady (Rolls-Royce), the sleek winged jet-style ornament (1942-1946 DeSoto), and the iconic Ram’s head (1951-1953 Dodge). The style clearly spans the late Art Deco streamline era into the early jet age of design. These are original factory hood decorations, traditionally cast in pot metal or zinc alloy and then finished with chrome plating. The Rolls-Royce mascot appears to be a smaller reproduction or perhaps a desk piece, though the detail remains. The overall condition for all four pieces is poor to fair. The chrome on every piece is heavily pitted, frosted, and lifting in areas, indicative of long-term exposure and corrosion. The mounting studs are present on the DeSoto and Rolls-Royce style pieces, while the Chevrolet piece has broken studs. The DeSoto ornament is bent or warped slightly. This group is best suited for restoration or for a collector who appreciates the “barn find” patina. Rolls Royce: 6.5” tall, 5” deep, 4.25” wide. 1951-53 Dodge: 11” long, 5” wide, 3” tall. 1942-46 DeSoto: 16.5” long, 4.5’ tall (minus display armature), 1.5” wide. 1950 Chevrolet: 16.5” long, 4.5” tall, 4” wide. See photos.
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