1920 Silvered Bronze Radiator Mascot of the Legendary Charlie Chaplin. Signed by the French artist Morante (Jean Pierre Morante, 1882-1960). A rather heavy item that is close to 1-1/2 lbs unpackaged. The base is equally interesting: P.V.S. Poughkeepsie, NY is believed to be from the PouVailSmith Corporation which was also known as POVASCO. Both pieces compliment each other well, especially in terms of chronology. Henry S Morgan of Pouvailsmith applied for his main United States Radiator Cap Patent # 1,349,137 on August 14, 1917. It was issued to him on August 10, 1920. Research indicates this was the year Morante created the Laughing Chaplin Mascot. Spot-On Period Pieces that compliment each other to the year.
Also of note is the rather small solid brass radiator. I believe it is just the insert of a larger cap. As noted on Morgan's Patent, perhaps the most important claim was that the majority composition of the cap should be of bakelite plastic with minimum metal content. Only metal should be that in direct contact to the radiator itself. Morgan believed that the bakelite could withstand the heat/steam temperatures generated. Pouvailsmith under POVASCO also marketed tilted or "drop" Steering Wheels that were heated. Not a bad accessory for 1917! Not much is really known of the company or their success since the early '20s. The Radiator Cap Patent claiming Bakelite Plastic had to have been positive as many companies followed that lead. One would figure that other companies using the idea would have paid Pouvailsmith royalties. The Steering Wheels on the other hand, despite being state-of-the-art for the time, were smaller and substantially less in Diameter of the original wheels that came with the automobiles. It had to take a pair strong arms with less leverage, and more turning rotations to safely drive using one of these wheels.
This is a rare opportuntiy to own a great piece of high-end transportation memorabilia at a reasonable price. In the pictures you will see a round marble base which is not included in the sale. All buyers need to DYOResearch before purchasing. Morante Mascots go for big money at high end auction houses such as Bonhams and Sotheby's. Also be sure to check out our other ebay auctions for other similar types of rare automobilia. Remember Old School Class Never Goes Out of Style! Buyer to include USA Priority Class shipping will be based on 2-1/2 lbs shipping. We do honor the ebay International Global Shipping Program.