The 'forgotten' model behind Rolls-Royce's Spirit of Ecstasy

Article excerpt

A heritage plaque in London now honors Eleanor Velasco Thornton, the woman whose likeness became Rolls-Royce's iconic Spirit of Ecstasy mascot. For over a century, the statuette adorning the hood of luxury cars has remained recognizable worldwide, yet Thornton's identity faded into obscurity. She was the mistress of John Montagu, a wealthy aristocrat and motoring enthusiast, and posed for sculptor Charles Sykes in 1911. The plaque recognition marks a rare moment of public acknowledgment for a woman whose image became automotive legend while her own story was largely forgotten.