Charles Henry Sykes Paintings

Charles Henry Sykes was a British cartoonist and illustrator known for his distinctive satirical style and for creating the famous 'Rolls-Royce Enthusiast' character, which later became the symbol for the Rolls-Royce car company, named 'The Spirit of Ecstasy'. Born in Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex, England, in 1882, Sykes was educated at the Royal College of Art in London, where he developed his artistic skills and began to form his unique illustrative style.

Sykes's early career was marked by a range of freelance work, including illustrating books and magazines. However, his work took a significant turn when he was commissioned by Claude Johnson, the managing director of Rolls-Royce, to create a mascot that would adorn the bonnets of their automobiles. In 1911, Sykes designed the 'Spirit of Ecstasy', which has since become an iconic symbol of luxury and elegance. The design was based on a secret love affair between John Walter Edward Douglas-Scott-Montagu, a pioneer of the automobile movement and editor of 'The Car Illustrated' magazine, and his secret love and muse, Eleanor Velasco Thornton. Thornton is said to have been the model for the emblem, which depicts a woman leaning forwards with her arms outstretched behind and above her, billowing cloth running from her arms to her back, resembling wings.

Aside from his work with Rolls-Royce, Sykes also served as a captain in the Royal Naval Air Service during World War I, where he put his artistic talents to use in the service of his country. After the war, he continued his work as an illustrator and cartoonist, contributing to various publications and enjoying a successful career. His cartoons often depicted the social and political issues of the time with a sharp wit and a keen sense of observation.

Charles Henry Sykes passed away in 1950, leaving behind a legacy as an artist who not only captured the essence of his times through his cartoons and illustrations but also created one of the most enduring symbols of luxury and automotive history. His work remains an important part of the art and automotive world, and 'The Spirit of Ecstasy' continues to be a defining feature of Rolls-Royce vehicles, embodying the elegance and prestige that the brand represents.