François Bazin was born in Paris on 31 October 1897 and died in Paris in 1956. His parents were engravers and medalists. Early years were spent in Chile where his parents taught at the Santiago art college. The family returned to Paris in 1913 and Bazin enrolled at the Paris École des Beaux-Art. He was mobilized in 1916 and attached to a squadron whose planes were equipped with Hispano Suiza engines. After the war he completed his studies and was runner-up for the Prix de Rome in 1925.
Although not a Breton many of his works can be seen in Brittany including “The monument aux bigoudens”, the monument at the Pointe de Pen Hir and the “Filles de la mer” statue at Quimper.
Bazin created many mascots for car bonnets (“les bouchons de radiateur”) such as “Triomphe”. His “Femme Mangbetu” featured on Citroën’s car competing in the “Croisière Noire” in 1924. He often worked with Louis Lejeune Ltd. His car mascots include “Cigogne” for the Hispano Suiza, “Tête de Femme Mangbetu” for Citroën, “Triomphe” for the Isotta Fraschini, “Tête d’éléphant” for the Latil, “Centaure” for the Unic and “Licorne” for the Licorne. Reference: Wikipedia
Below are some examples and price guides of Francois Bazin’s car mascots including an example of his maker’s mark and an emblem of Automobiles Hispano-Suiza
Francois Bazin Maker’s Mark
Silvered bronze mascot, emblem of Automobiles Hispano-Suiza, signed F.Bazin. Numbered 1030 under the base. Trimmed wings and metal break at the base.
H: 12.5 cm and W: 20 cm.
Sold for €1,211.25 inc. premium at Bonham’s in 2022
F. Bazin for I. Fraschini Art Deco Car Mascot, 1920s
Circa 1920’s mascot by François Bazin for Isotta Fraschini, mounted to radiator cap on wood stand. Nickel silvered bronze, marked F. Bazin. Natural patina and surface wear, also some warping to figure. Wear to base. Approximate measurements (not including base) about 7.5″ height by 8.5″ width. With base figure stands at a height of about 9.25″ inches.
Sold for US$325 at The Cleveland Auction Co in 2021
François Bazin Cast Zinc The Latil Elephant Automobile Mascot, circa 1920 Marks: LATIL, F. BAZIN 4-3/4 inches (12.1 cm) (excluding base)
Mounted on hexagonal painted wood base, pitting to ears and base commensurate with air and use, presents well.
Sold for US$310 at Heritage Auctions in 2021
Francois Victor Bazin (French, 1897-1956)
A signed brass automobile mascot of a woman Mangbetu raised on composite base.
Sold for US$700 at Kamelot Auctions in 2019
