Rolls-Royce Bronze Spirit of Ecstasy – Rare 1928 Dealership Statue by Charles Sykes – VS6206

The Spirit of Ecstasy – A Story of Elegance, Speed, and History

This is a rare opportunity to acquire a genuine 1928 Rolls-Royce Spirit of Ecstasy bronze statue, signed "Sykes 28" by the legendary sculptor Charles Robinson Sykes. Measuring 21 inches tall, this solid bronze sculpture was cast during the final years in which Sykes personally oversaw the production of Spirit of Ecstasy pieces. It is offered in its original, unrestored condition—making it a true collector’s treasure.

These statues were not ordinary showroom decor. Commissioned by Rolls-Royce of America, they were created in extremely limited quantities and placed in only the most prestigious dealerships across major cities during the 1920s and 30s. They represent the golden age of automobile design and the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and luxury.

About the Sculpture

Commissioned in 1911, the Spirit of Ecstasy was sculpted by Charles Sykes and inspired by Eleanor Thornton, muse and alleged lover of Lord Montagu of Beaulieu. The figure soon became the symbol of Rolls-Royce, embodying grace, speed, and silent power.

In the 1920s, Rolls-Royce produced larger bronze showroom editions of the mascot for display in their most prestigious showrooms. These were hand-cast in bronze, finished to the same fine-art standards as the cars themselves.

Rolls-Royce Phantom I Circa 1928

The Truth Behind the Dealership History

While previous records suggested this statue may have originated from a Rolls-Royce dealership in Hershey, Pennsylvania, historical documentation reveals that no Rolls-Royce franchise existed in Hershey during the 1920s. The closest dealerships at the time were:

• Penn Motors, Philadelphia – Rolls-Royce’s authorized agent for Eastern Pennsylvania.

• M.G. Patton, Pittsburgh – The Western Pennsylvania representative.

Collectors or enthusiasts from Hershey would have likely traveled to Philadelphia or New York City to view or purchase Rolls-Royce automobiles during this period.

This makes the origin of this statue even more fascinating — it may have originally resided in one of the elite dealership showrooms in a major city such as Philadelphia, or even come through a Rolls-Royce regional representative or private collection.

ROLLS-ROYCE ‘MAKERS OF THE MARQUE’: CHARLES ROBINSON SYKES

About the Artist: Charles Sykes

Charles Robinson Sykes was a British sculptor commissioned by Rolls-Royce to create what would become one of the most iconic automotive symbols of all time. First unveiled in 1911, the Spirit of Ecstasy was modeled after Eleanor Thornton, Sykes’ muse and rumored love interest of Lord Montagu.

Each early mascot was hand-cast, with signed versions like this 1928 showroom piece considered exceptionally rare.