AFA 22nd Anniversary

Antiques & Fine Art 85 2022 There was a consumer segment, however, that desired more personal identifiers. Recognizing this marketing opportunity, many companies produced specialized mascots that could be used on any car brand. Whereas standard mascots were referred to as “factory mascots,” the specialty models were known as “accessory mascots.” Manufactured both in America and internationally, with few exceptions, accessory mascots made in Britain and Europe were more sophisticated in design and more finely cast than those made in America. It is estimated that between 5,000 and 8,000 different mascot models were produced around the world. As might be expected by this large number, they ranged in subject and quality from those of dubious merit to great works of art. The vast majority of mascots were made of metal. Most factory and many later accessory mascots were made using a die casting process . This mass production method consisted of forcing molten metal under high pressure into a mold cavity. P eople have always tried to differentiate themselves, pursuing a quest for identity through their accomplishments, social position, and possessions. The automobile is often seen as a means to ref lect such goals and announce an owner’s preferences for, and ability to achieve, luxury versus economy, performance versus style, and uncommon versus popular. Automobile manufacturers realized they could play into consumer desires to identify themselves with and through their vehicles. One way manufacturers achieved this was to create marque uniqueness by designing car mascots or hood ornaments for the front of a car’s hood that highlighted and communicated their brand’s image. Leaping Gazelle , by Herbert V. Henderson for Chrysler Imperial (American), 1931–1932. Chrome-plated zinc; Height 4.3 in, Length 8.7 in. Collection of the author. While at Chrysler Motors, industrial designer Herbert V. Henderson led the Art and Color Department. He or members of his department designed this large leaping Gazelle, which was used exclusively for the Chrysler Imperial and not for the standard Chrysler. It has extremely long horns that are fragile and easily broken. This is one of the few intact examples. Petty Girl , by George Petty for Nash Motors (American), 1955. Chrome-plated zinc; Width 6.3 in., Length 15 in. Collection of the author. This highly streamlined female mascot was designed by George Petty. He was a famous American artist who from 1933 through 1956 specialized in drawing “Pin-up Girls.” He is one of the few artists prominent enough to merit a signature on an American mascot; “Petty” is engraved on the right wing. This hood ornament was used on the Nash Ambassador series.