1936 Ford V8 Phaeton

One of artist Robert Rauschenberg’s noted works, Automobile Tire Print, was created by driving a Ford Model A across 20 sheets of paper. In 1979, Rauschenberg embarked on another Ford-related project, enlisting his friend and business partner Bill Goldston to help locate a 1936 Phaeton. Rauschenberg had dreamed of owning a 1936 Ford since childhood, when he witnessed President Roosevelt driving a similar Phaeton. Goldston succeeded in finding this Model 68 Phaeton, and Rauschenberg set out from New York for his Florida studio. While traversing the Eastern seaboard, he captured photographs for The Razorback Bunch (1980–1983) print series, now in the Museum of Modern Art’s collection. Goldston recounts that Rauschenberg was amazed by the Ford’s quietness, nicknaming it “Sneaker” for the way it would peacefully sneak along the road. The journey was documented in photographs, capturing the artist enjoying the Phaeton. Several years later, Rauschenberg asked Goldston to find it a new home. Enamored with the car himself, Goldston elected to keep it – for the next three decades. Presented today much in the same condition as during its journey with Rauschenberg, this Phaeton offers a rare connection to a chapter in the artist’s life, while serving as an evocative reminder of the usability and character of Ford’s early V-8. Few endorsements could be more fitting than Rauschenberg’s own affection for the car. car

Estimate:$45,000

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