Rolls-Royce Phantom
Eight generations of Phantom artwork
The successive generations of the Phantom have become living witnesses to history. This time, Rolls-Royce’s in-house designers have created eight artworks themed around past models. This one is “THE PINNACLE OF LUXURY (Phantom VIII),” depicting the current eighth generation.
With eight generations of cars, each building on the legacy of its predecessor, the Phantom has reigned supreme not just as a Rolls-Royce flagship, but as the world’s most prestigious luxury model. Now in its second century, the Phantom continues to be beloved by those who shape the world of Rolls-Royce.
Since its creation, the Phantom has become one of history’s most enduring stories, linked to famous people and historic events, and projecting power and influence around the world through its commanding presence and unique ability to reflect the personalities of its owners.
To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Phantom and pay tribute to its legacy, Rolls-Royce designers have created original artwork that captures the spirit of each of the eight generations. Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive Officer of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, explains the purpose:
“The Rolls-Royce Phantom is more than a car. For 100 years it has reigned at the top of the range, reflected trends and influenced the world as a cultural presence. From its earliest days, the Phantom has been a prize of success, a most desired automobile and a powerful symbol of power and prestige.”
“More than a sense of status, Phantom has offered its owners a canvas for personal expression, transformed into moving works of art by Rolls-Royce’s renowned craftsmanship. From music to politics to art and beyond, Phantom has been present at many of history’s defining moments. The story and artwork surrounding this Phantom inspires our designers and expresses its enduring connection to greatness.”
A tribute to the 1910 catalogue illustration
The eight artworks pay homage to the illustrations for the Rolls-Royce catalogue that artist Charles Sykes created in 1910. This one, “LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION (Phantom III),” depicts the third-generation Phantom.
In 1910, artist Charles Sykes, who created the Spirit of Ecstasy mascot, was commissioned to create six original oil paintings for the 80-page Rolls-Royce catalogue, and the Phantom Centenary artwork unveiled today pays homage to his work.
Sykes’ oil paintings show Rolls-Royce vehicles arriving at opera houses, country houses and golf courses, reflecting the lavish lifestyles then reserved for the aristocracy. A 2025 illustration by Rolls-Royce’s in-house designers shows how Phantom customer profiles have diversified over the past century.
Eight works have been released, each depicting a different theme and situation based on a different type of vehicle: “QUINTESSENTIALLY BRITISH” (Phantom I), “THE GOLDEN ERA OF TRAVEL” (Phantom II), “LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION” (Phantom III), “GRAND OCCASIONS” (Phantom IV), “A MUSICIAN’S DREAM” (Phantom V), “A STATELY PRESENCE” (Phantom VI), “A SENSE OF ARRIVAL” (Phantom VII), and “THE PINNACLE OF LUXURY” (Phantom VIII).
These contemporary artworks celebrate the Phantom’s role in British culture, illustrating how over a century the character has been present at defining moments in politics, society and world history. From heads of state to film stars, the Phantom has profoundly helped to shape the world they live in.
