Lalique "Grande Libellule" Dragonfly Hood Ornament, 1928-1930

THF168870 / Lalique "Grande Libellule" Dragonfly Hood Ornament, 1928-1930
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Artifact Overview

Rene Lalique created some of the most striking automobile mascots or hood ornaments. Lalique's elegant, molded-glass models enhanced the front of any luxury vehicle. The mascots could also be lit from below making them all the more impressive. These decorative mascots became a symbol of the car owner's wealth, status, and good taste.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Hood ornament

Date Made

1928-1930

Place of Creation

Creator Notes

Designed by Rene Lalique, Wingen-sur-Moder, France.

Location

at Greenfield Village in Davidson-Gerson Gallery of Glass

Object ID

68.19.583

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Samuel L. Scher, M.D.

Material

Glass (Material)

Color

Colorless

Dimensions

Height: 8.5 in
Length: 8 in
Diameter: 2.5 in (of base)

Inscriptions

Etched script on side: R LALIQUE FRANCE
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    Hood ornaments -- formally called mascots -- are among the most prominent decorative elements on an automobile's exterior. Manufacturers designed mascots that communicated speed, power, or prestige. Some motorists replaced factory ornaments with aftermarket pieces that conveyed wealth and taste. More practical drivers capped their radiators with functional motometers to measure engine temperature. In any form, mascots made a statement.