October Fall Classic
Lot 1212k:
Description
This is a fantastic piece of automotive history—the iconic “Swan” or “Cormorant” hood ornament, standard on the 1954 Packard Clipper models and a classic example of late streamline moderne/early Jet Age design in Detroit. The polished chrome-plated metal sculpture features a stylized bird (some say a swan, some a cormorant) with a sweeping, aerodynamic body designed to look like it’s in flight. This long, sleek, pointed mascot perfectly captures the optimism and speed aesthetic of the era. The piece is mounted on a bent metal rod display stand that appears to be fabricated for presentation. The chrome on the main ornament shows heavy pitting, visible corrosion, and surface discoloration across all exposed areas, suggesting decades of exposure to the elements; this is a true survivor piece, not a highly polished restoration. The base metal mounting tabs show evidence of rust and are attached to the display rod with a visible nut and bolt. The display rod itself shows general surface wear and grime. H 12″, L 28.5″, W 4″ See photos.
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