Rolls-Royce made waves years ago when they unveiled their unique Starlight Headliners. The system is comprised of hundreds of fiber-optic lights and is controlled by the front passenger compartment with adjustability to set the right atmosphere of stars. Anywhere between 800 to 1600 holes are perforated into the leather headliner and set to an even height by craftsmen so that no light outshines any other.
This system works perfectly if you want some faux stars in your leather and metal sky as you waft along in your Rolls-Royce. But what if you want something different? Something a bit more artistic and unique? Rolls-Royce had that exact request from their Private Office in Shanghai. This dragon-inspired marquetry compromises 297 individual pieces to capture an image of two dragons engaging with a pearl.

Rolls is certainly sensitive of their markets as East Asia is becoming crucial for them. They were quoted as saying:
“One of the Rolls-Royce brand’s signature strengths is creating products that sensitively and respectfully integrate iconography from specific cultures, interpreted through our own innovative crafts and design language. Like every Bespoke motor car, this magnificent Phantom Extended is a testament to the skills and creativity of our Bespoke designers, engineers, and craftspeople. This commission features a Bespoke Gallery with a floating effect that makes the dragon appear as if it is formed from clouds of smoke—a design achieved through the intricate art of marquetry, one of the most demanding techniques applied in a motor car interior.
Phantom Dragon highlights the importance of our presence in China through the Private Office in Shanghai. Having a dedicated Rolls-Royce team in this region gives us a unique understanding of, and connection to, one of the world’s most significant luxury markets. Blending local Chinese culture with international aesthetics allows us to create truly unique and contemporary products with real depth and substance, like this extraordinary motor car.”
This custom headliner was installed on a Phantom Extended and was unveiled for the celebration of the Year of the Dragon. Commissioned from a client from China, it interprets a legend of two dragons with a pearl and was said to embody the success and personal philosophy of the client.
Cheers!
M. T. Blake