GOLDEN SPIRIT (Original)

Few symbols in automotive history are as instantly recognisable as the Rolls-Royce Spirit of Ecstasy. Known affectionately as the Flying Lady or Silver Lady, this elegant bonnet sculpture has represented the British marque for more than a century. Its origins date back to 1909, when Lord Montagu of Beaulieu commissioned sculptor Charles Robinson Sykes to create a personal mascot for his Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost. Inspired by Eleanor Velasco Thornton, Montagu's secretary and secret lover, the original figure was known as The Whisper, with a finger held to her lips. Sykes subsequently developed the Spirit of Ecstasy for Rolls-Royce, establishing one of the most enduring emblems in automotive design. In Golden Spirit, Vince Edmunds recreates this iconic figure through his distinctive combination of glue-chipped glass, genuine 24-carat gold leaf and 22.5-carat champagne gold leaf. The flowing form of the Spirit of Ecstasy is finished in richly textured gold, with contrasting champagne tones defining its base against a deep black background. Every stage of the artwork is completed by Vince himself, from preparing and sandblasting the glass to glue-chipping, gilding, painting and final assembly. The naturally occurring glue-chipping process produces patterns that cannot be precisely replicated, ensuring each individually handcrafted artwork is unique. Created using 4mm float glass and presented in a satin black frame with a gold sight line, each piece includes an engraved brass nameplate recording its title, creation date and collection number. A certificate of authenticity, insurance valuation and gold leaf certification are also supplied. Size: 66cm x 76cm (26" x 30") Lead time: 6-8 weeks.