I'm looking for information about this rare hood ornament because I believe I might have one. I'm looking for information on who created the original. On the bottom of the ornament it is signed R Varnier of France. I'm also looking for a picture that's in the 1931 accessory catalog showing what this is suppose to look like.
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1931 Faust Diablo hood orniment
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Anyone remember which issue of TURNING WHEELS spotlighted these hood ornaments? Had to be at least five years ago.
Aha!
It took some searching. Tweren't five years ago; it was fourteen.
June 1995 with article by Fred Fox, [u]Studebaker Radiator Cap Mascots and Hood Ornaments, 1927-1966</u>.
The Faust Diablo [u]is</u> the back cover photo.
Studebaker part # AC-67.
Fred gives no indication of the designer.
I believe the original cover photo was contributed by Mr. Quinn.
My scanner isn't working or I would post a copy.Brad Johnson,
SDC since 1975, ASC since 1990
Pine Grove Mills, Pa.
'33 Rockne 10, '51 Commander Starlight. '53 Commander Starlight
'56 Sky Hawk in process
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I see that the 2nd (cruder) one lacks detail and smoothing of the piece. Perhaps the 2nd one is also not plated?
Big difference in prices, I'm willing to bet.
Chris Pile
Editor: The Studebaker Special
The only difference between death and taxes is that death does not grow worse every time Congress convenes. - Will Rogers
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Richard
I appreciate your help on this. I'm the one who purchased the one on e-bay in Sept for $305. Based on the information you left me the mascot that I purchased looks like to second picture with it signed on the bottom R Varnier France. It is my understanding that R Varnier was a metal sculpture in the art world. The only difference I see in the one that I have compared to the second picture is that the horn are slightly different on the top. They appear to be a little closer together. It is also slightly different at the bottom where it fits over the ridge on the cap. It doenn't appear to be releaved. My question to you is was there a smooth cap that they mounted these to?
Thank you
W Kollman
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Well, both are the real deal. Both were apparently used and are originals from the early 1930's.
As far as securing them to a smooth cap the answer would be no if it was originally used on a Studebaker since as the photos indicate that all of the Studebaker caps had the ridge running down the center. While I am certain Studebaker offered this mascot I have a feeling that this ornament was also produced as an aftermarket item for use on other cars. These were probably not exactly the same as the one used by Studebaker.
Richard Quinn
Editor emeritus: Antique Studebaker ReviewRichard Quinn
Editor emeritus: Antique Studebaker Review
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No information is enough on hood ornaments of the era R.Quinn.
A truely artistic point in automotive history and style. It's one of those items I instinctively take a picture of when I attend any show.
A couple favorites are the Pierce Arrow archer, and the not too often seen Hupmobile, (not so much design, but rarity in viewing)
Edited for duplicate posts, and spelling
ChopStu
137 weeks till completion.
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