At a recent sale by Canadian-based RM, a 30-piece collection of mascots (more commonly known as hood ornaments) of master glass craftsman Rene Lalique changed hands for $805,000 (U.S.). (Michael Furman/RM Auctions/Michael Furman/RM Auctions)
In 1925, Lalique received a commission from Andre Citroen to produce a mascot for his 5CV model. The result, five prancing horses in glass, was dubbed “Cinc Cheveaux”. (Michael Furman/RM Auctions/Michael Furman/RM Auctions)
Lalique produced his creations – which depicted animals, birds, insects, comets and nudes – mostly in clear glass, but sometimes in frosted, satin finish or opalescent glass, and others tinted or coloured. (Michael Furman/RM Auctions/Michael Furman/RM Auctions)
Many of Lalique’s mascots were apparently used as paperweights and these likely have a much higher survival rate than those actually used on cars. (Michael Furman/RM Auctions/Michael Furman/RM Auctions)
It isn’t known how many Lalique mascots were produced up until the Second World War (Lalique himself died in 1945, but the company still exists as a purveyor of pricey lifestyle items), or how many survive. (Michael Furman/RM Auctions/Michael Furman/RM Auctions)
Copies and fakes abound, but judging by the price paid for Chesney’s collection, if you find an old cardboard box of these beautiful and rare automotive ornaments at a spring car flea market you shouldn’t haggle, just pay the asking price and walk nonchalantly away. (Michael Furman/RM Auctions/Michael Furman/RM Auctions)
to get it and come back to see the ad in front of this gallery.
