PHANTASTIC BEASTS

Rolls-Royce presents Bespoke "Year of the Dragon" Phantom Extended and Cullinan models, in celebration of artistry, culture and technology.

- KC YAP

DESIGNED AND HAND-CRAFTED at the Goodwood home of Rolls-Royce, three rare and beautiful Phantom Extended models and a Cullinan have been developed in celebration of Chinese culture through bespoke artistry. The commissions drew inspiration from the dragon, an enduring and international symbol of power, success and prosperity, with a modern, minimalistic expression never previously seen in a Rolls-Royce, while remaining faithful and respectful to the original form.

“Our aim was to create a modern interpretation of the dragon capturing its essence as a symbol of power. The design evokes a sense of motion and energy, expressing the dragon as a driving force, all rendered with a depth and complexity to reflect its commanding spirit and presence. It was an inspirational journey for our Bespoke Collective to reinterpret such a significant icon; our Bespoke artisans added their own subtle dimension and character to the dragon expression, showcasing how a single design can be transformed through different mediums and craft techniques,” said Rebecca Davies, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ Bespoke designer.

The “Year of the Dragon” Bespoke commissions include fascia panels adorned with highly contemporary artworks reinterpreting the dragon form. Individually hand-painted by one dedicated Rolls-Royce artist, each is a distinctive exploration of the colour red, which represents prosperity and good fortune in Chinese culture. Each of the three artworks is the result of over two weeks of detailed work.