Classic and contemporary hood ornaments to sell
More than 215 lots of car mascots (hood ornaments) including Art Deco examples from the 1920s to figural pieces and automaker brand pieces are set to sell during the July 24 auction presented by Turner Auctions + Appraisals.
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — Turner Auctions + Appraisals is offering the Sy and Ronnie Margolis Collection of Automobile Mascots via online auction July 24.
The sale features more than 215 lots of diverse car mascots, mostly from the U.S., France and Britain; and related collectibles. The auction will begin at 11:30 am PDT; and the online auction will be featured on LiveAuctioneers and Invaluable.
Sy and Ronnie Margolis’ eclectic collection features a wide range of hood or fender ornaments, the earliest dating to 1909 and most to the 1920s and 1930s. In the early days of automobiles, wealthy owners would customize their vehicles with mascots to add beauty, make a political statement, identify with an organization or brand or convey something about themselves. This collection offers a wide selection of subject matter – from playful to classical – as petite statues: most mascots range from 4 to 9 inches in height and/or width.
Reflecting the era of Art Deco design – sleek and stylized – there are many winged gods and goddesses, as well as women and men. Fauna are a popular subject matter, including animals such as a lion, ape, cat, dogs, panther, fox squirrel, seal, bunny, bear, among others. Famous figures are widely represented, such as Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln, Richard Nixon, Cleopatra and British Bobbies.
Amusing mascots include a bulldog with a sore tooth, a golfing beetle, Jojo the Gnome and a baby with a toothache (from the French Dental Association). Hood ornaments from automobile manufacturers include Cadillac, Studebaker, Stutz, Jaguar and Chevy. Plus, several glass mascots, including a form by Rene Lalique, will be offered during the auction. Rounding out the sale are related automobile ephemera including advertising prints, art, posters, letters, stock certificates and vintage photos.
For more information, visit www.turnerauctionsonline.com, or call 888-498-4450.
