DOMENICO MASTROIANNI (1876-1962): A TROPHY FROM THE 1908 MONACO MOTORBOAT MEETING

‘Le Championnat de la Mer’ / ' The Champion of The Sea'

bronze sculpture cast by 'Ervann Editeur, Paris'., circa 1908, by the lost wax process and depicting two early racing motorboats rounding the figure of Victory rising from the sea holding a laurel wreath, signed behind second boat 'D Mastroianni', secured to granite plinth -- 12½ x 29 x 9½in. (32 x 73.5 x 24cm.)

This trophy is understood to have been awarded to the Panhard-Levassor team at the 1908 Monaco race meeting. Taking place between 1-13 April, the principal race on the 9th April was a 200km course open to all competitors. In fact there were only four real contenders, two from France comprising Panhard-Levassor and Grand Trefle, the Italian team with a Fiat-Gallinari and the British team with a Wolseley-Siddeley which was tipped as the favourite. In the event, the Wolseley-Siddeley broke down, the Fiat-Gallinari caught fire and the second French team lost control ramming a photographer's boat with the loss of one life, leaving the Panhard-Levassor to complete the course in 3h 45m 2s - over an hour ahead of the next boat. Nevertheless, this splendid art-nouveau sculpture was presented to the winning team and, because it's understood to have been produced using the lost wax process, is considered unique.

Condition Report

Fine overall condition.

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.