Jacques Saoutchik: Maître Carrossier,
1948 Talbot-Lago Grand Sport Chassis 110101

By Peter Larsen and Ben Erickson

The 1948 Salon de l’Automobile: A Star is Born
 

When the Paris Salon opened its doors, it was to a world of postwar austerity. Like some supernova, the undisputed Star blazed on the Saoutchik stand: Talbot-Lago T26 Grand Sport chassis 110101. Its voluptuous body was a dazzling fastback coupé that featured an elaborately interacting flow of alluring, gorgeous curves—as close to the essence of the automobile as sculpture as any carrosserie has conceived in the history of automotive design. The unique livery was a daring blend of pastel mint green and chocolate brown.
 

The complete history, background and forensic restoration of this glamorous automobile is discussed in detail and copiously illustrated with period and modern high-quality images, including remarkable full-page photos that capture the compelling atmosphere of the Salon. Chassis 110101 was the stuff of dreams, a truly overpowering car. Everything else at the Salon came in second. And second is everything that is not first. Simple as that.

This title is published by Dalton Watson Fine books and can be ordered here.