Large ESSO Silver Trophy

“Oil Drop” – 1960 – Vespa

Title:
Large ESSO advertising trophy – “Oil Drop” – Vespa

Issuer / Sponsor:
ESSO

Date:
1960 (engraved)

Material:
Solid silver (polished)

Technique:
Cast and chased silver, mirror-polished finish

Subject / Description:
Impressive advertising trophy depicting the iconic ESSO oil drop, rendered in an anthropomorphic, smiling figure. The character stands upright, raising one hand in a greeting gesture, with the ESSO logo in relief on the torso.
The sculpture is mounted on a circular black base (bakelite or lacquered wood) with an engraved metal plaque.

Inscription:
“TERZA – 12 Ore Esso – 29·6·1960”

Event:
“12 Ore Esso” competition – Terza (third place)

Vespa connection:
Trophy awarded in the context of a competition or event linked to Vespa scooters, emblematic of races and rallies sponsored by ESSO in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

Presentation:
With its original presentation case, lined with red fabric.

Dimensions:
Large-scale model; striking, monumental proportions for an advertising trophy
(exact measurements available on request)

Condition:
Very good overall condition
– silver well preserved, with light wear and natural patina
– original case showing normal signs of age

Rarity:
Very rare. Large silver ESSO trophies of this model are scarcely documented and highly sought after, particularly by collectors of Vespa, automobilia, and petroleum advertising memorabilia.

Collecting interest:

• ESSO advertising

• Automobilia & motorcycling memorabilia

• Vespa universe

• Vintage sports trophies

• 1960s advertising design

Period:
1960s – iconic mid-century advertising design

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