Rolls-Royce Logo: The Spirit of Ecstasy

Whether you’re a long-time owner or you just purchased a new Rolls-Royce, you’re undoubtedly familiar with the famous Rolls-Royce logo: the Spirit of Ecstasy. The iconic hood ornament that graces every model depicts a woman in flowing gowns, leaning forward as if into the wind. If you know the history of Rolls-Royce and the emphasis on forward-thinking, this elegant statuette truly embodies the ethos of Rolls-Royce.

The Rolls-Royce symbol also carries a nickname, ‘the flying lady.’ However, her grace is based on more than simple aesthetics. Learn more about the meaning behind the famous Rolls-Royce hood ornament and the evolution of the Rolls-Royce logo below!

Origins of the Rolls-Royce Symbol

The Spirit of Ecstasy was born in 1909 when sculptor Charles Sykes transformed Eleanor Thornton’s likeness into an automotive icon. By 1911, the Spirit of Ecstasy was gracing every new Rolls-Royce model. At the time, the design of the Spirit of Ecstasy broke with cultural norms. This trailblazing spirit has continued to burn within Rolls-Royce engineers and drivers ever since. Let’s examine what the Spirit of Ecstasy symbolized at the time of its creation:

• During this era, the cultural standards of London promoted women as passive.
• This characterization couldn’t have been further from the truth for the inspiration of the Spirit of Ecstasy, Eleanor Thronton. Her automotive enthusiasm and work with the motoring magazine Car Illustrated, spurned expectations of her era.
• The active, bold, and progressive movement of the Spirit of Ecstasy matched Eleanor’s gusto and symbolized freedom. Rolls-Royce knew that freedom of movement would be granted by the automobile, and the flowing gown of the flying lady personified that exquisitely.

Evolution of the Rolls-Royce Emblem

Along with the iconic Rolls-Royce hood ornament, the Rolls-Royce logo itself has evolved to usher in a modern era. The team that helped reinvigorate the Rolls-Royce emblem, Pentagram, has a home here in Austin, proving that our city knows a thing or two about innovation. The changes made to the Rolls-Royce Symbol in 2020 are more than a mere tweak to the logo, rather, Rolls-Royce is embracing a fresh brand identity.

Subtle, yet prominent changes have been introduced to inspire a renewed spirit among drivers and enthusiasts alike. From a simplification to the double “R” Badge of Honor to a reshaping of the flying lady, Rolls-Royce is moving forward. In fact, the Spirit of Ecstasy has been re-positioned to show the figure facing right, perhaps looking to the future. What’s more, the Rolls-Royce emblem is joined by a prominent purple color scheme and the Spirit of Ecstasy Expression, which has been generated by computer code.

Find Your New Ride in Austin

If you’re ready to sport the Rolls-Royce hood ornament on your travels from San Antonio to Dallas, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Austin is the place to shop. Our expert team can help you learn the history of Rolls-Royce while guiding you to the exact model you crave. Working with our financiers will deliver a stress-free shopping experience and the keys to your dream ride. If you’re ready to adorn your Houston driveway with a Rolls-Royce, contact us to get started.