Charles Robinson Sykes
Design for Rolls Royce hood ornament
Charcoal drawing, 52cm by 39cm

Ex Tennants Fine Art Sale, 20.7.02, lot 1099

Most Rolls-Royce historians agree that Charles Sykes drew his inspiration for both his original "Whisper" and later "Spirit of Ecstasy" mascots from the graceful shape of Eleanor Thornton, secretary to the Lord Montagu of Beaulieu. This drawing would appear to have been done in preparation for the sculpting of the mascots and Sykes brief from the managing director of Rolls-Royce, Claude Johnson. Originally the property of Miss Thornton, these drawings were loaned to the Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts' Club by one of her descendants for the opening of their headquarters in 1980 and they still carry the label verifying this fact. Label to verso: Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts' Club on loan from Mrs D E Hayter, reference Opening Only, date 23/4/1980 with initials RB.