Mullin Museum founder Peter Mullin’s affection for French culture is no secret to anyone in this industry, and it will once again be on display at his Oxnard, California, facility beginning April 14. Entitled “L’époque des Carrossiers: The Art and Times of the French Coachbuilders,” this new display will showcase the finest and most renowned sculpture, artifacts and vehicles from the Museum’s permanent collection, each representing the skill and unparalleled craftsmanship of the most esteemed French master coachbuilders.
The Era of Coachbuilding was marked by elegantly designed and handcrafted automobile bodies that were commissioned by society’s most prominent members, using artisans and visionaries to craft bespoke works of rolling art. “L’époque des Carrossiers” will explore the greatest vehicles of this genre, highlighting the works of preeminent French builders such as Bugatti, Citroen, De Villars, Figoni and Falaschi, Henri Chapron, Henri Labourdette, Million, Guiet & Cie., Pourtout, Jacques Saoutchik, Vanvooren and Gabriel Voisin.
Guests will instantly recognize the 2018 “Best of the Best” winner — the 1936 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic, which was designed by Jean Bugatti, as well as the 1937 Talbot-Lago T150-C SS “Goutte d’Eau” (teardrop). The teardrop was designed by Joseph Figoni and was named “Best of the Best” in 2016.
Museum patrons will also find other Concours-winning vehicles such as the 1938 Dubonnet Hispano-Suiza H6B “Xenia” by Jacques Saoutchik, the revolutionary 1934 Voisin Type C27 Aérosport Coupe, the 1939 Delahaye Type 165 Cabriolet by Figoni and Falashci, and many more.
“Our new exhibit will showcase the sublime beauty and artistry of France’s finest coachbuilt cars,” said Peter Mullin. “The display highlights the nuanced details and elegant craftsmanship that define and distinguish each of the coachbuilders from one another. The elegant cars paired with their rich and diverse stories will create a captivating educational experience on the coachbuilt genre.”
“L’époque des Carrossiers” will open to the public on April 14, and be preceded by a media day event at the museum on Thursday, April 12. To purchase tickets or learn more about the Mullin Automotive Museum, please visit mullinautomotivemuseum.com
