The Rolls-Royce Phantom Dragon is more than just a luxury automobile; it is a meticulously crafted tribute to Chinese culture and artistry. Curated by the Private Office Shanghai, this one-of-one Phantom Extended celebrates the Year of the Dragon and marks the beginning of the Phantom nameplate’s centenary in 2025. Commissioned by a discerning Chinese client, the Phantom Dragon elegantly blends traditional Chinese iconography with Rolls-Royce’s modern design language, embodying the values of kindness, generosity, and cultural harmony.
A Tribute to Chinese Iconography
The inspiration behind the Phantom Dragon stems from an ancient legend over 3,000 years old. The story tells of two dragons, protectors of humanity, who were gifted a divine pearl for their virtuous deeds. Rather than keeping the treasure for themselves, the dragons displayed humility and generosity, inspiring the gods to bestow a second pearl. The dragons absorbed this gift and ascended as deities, symbolizing power, good fortune, and the harmonious balance of Yin and Yang.
This tale is intricately woven into the Phantom Dragon’s design, reflecting the commissioning client’s personal philosophy and celebrating the cultural heritage of East Asia. Through its thoughtful design and bespoke craftsmanship, the vehicle underscores the importance of Rolls-Royce’s presence in China, a key luxury market.
Artistry in The Gallery
At the heart of the Phantom Dragon’s interior lies The Gallery, a masterpiece of marquetry crafted from 297 individual pieces and four types of wood. Representing the two dragons amidst swirling clouds, the artwork is centered around a Bespoke clock, symbolizing the divine pearl. The Smoked Eucalyptus base layer is accentuated by Sycamore veneer outlines and Ash burr textures, creating a stunning visual effect that makes the dragons appear to float. Black Bolivar veneer adds depth and shadow, further enhancing the intricate design.
The creation of this marquetry demanded three months of dedicated effort from a single artisan, showcasing Rolls-Royce’s commitment to precision and craftsmanship. The surrounding interior elements, such as Canadel door panels in natural open-pore Smoked Eucalyptus, seamlessly complement the Gallery’s exquisite design.
A Celestial Symphony
Adding to the grandeur is the Bespoke Starlight Headliner, a celestial display of artistry. Depicting two abstract dragons rendered in red and white, the headliner incorporates 768 red and 576 white fiber-optic lights, along with 24 shooting stars. This majestic composition captures the ethereal beauty of the dragons and their divine pearl, creating an awe-inspiring ambiance.
Luxurious Personalization
The Phantom Dragon’s interior exudes luxury and sophistication. The front and rear Serenity seats are upholstered in Ardent Red and black leather, respectively, providing a striking contrast. The client’s family name, embroidered in ancient Chinese calligraphy, adorns the headrests, adding a personal touch to the vehicle. Every detail, from the choice of materials to the precision of the embroidery, reflects Rolls-Royce’s dedication to bespoke design.
Exterior Elegance
The one-of-one Phantom Dragon is finished in Iced Diamond Black, a signature shimmering satin hue that exudes elegance and exclusivity. This distinctive finish provides a striking contrast to the dramatic interior, highlighting the vehicle’s timeless appeal.
A Celebration of Culture and Craftsmanship
The Phantom Dragon is not merely a car but a cultural artifact that bridges Chinese heritage and international aesthetics. This commission exemplifies Rolls-Royce’s ability to create bespoke vehicles that honor cultural traditions while embracing modern design. The Private Office Shanghai played a pivotal role in this endeavor, ensuring that the client’s vision was realized with authenticity and respect.
Summary and Specifications
- Commission: One-of-one Phantom Extended
- Inspiration: Ancient Chinese legend of two dragons and a pearl
- Interior Features:
- Marquetry with 297 pieces in The Gallery
- Bespoke Starlight Headliner with 1,344 fiber-optic lights
- Ardent Red and black leather Serenity seats
- Personalized embroidery in ancient Chinese calligraphy
- Exterior: Iced Diamond Black finish
- Significance: Celebrates the Year of the Dragon and Phantom’s centenary
Source: Rolls-Royce
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
