Bentley Mulliner’s Collection Inspired by China
Bentley’s Mulliner unveils bespoke collections inspired by Chinese culture, blending heritage with luxury craftsmanship.
Mulliner, Bentley’s renowned bespoke division, has introduced a series of exclusive collections inspired by China’s rich cultural heritage. Showcasing exceptional craftsmanship, these eight distinct collections incorporate intricate detailing, unique design elements, and symbolic references tailored specifically for the Chinese market.
Mulliner’s expert designers have meticulously crafted each collection. From the precise number of claws on embroidered dragon motifs to the directional flow of koi fish within the cabin, every element has been thoughtfully considered to reflect cultural significance.
The collections use the Bentayga Extended Wheelbase (EWB), Flying Spur, and Continental GT as canvases to draw inspiration from symbolic animals, renowned artworks, and traditional objects, blending heritage with Bentley’s signature luxury.
Koi fish, regarded in Chinese tradition as symbols of luck and resilience, inspire one of the bespoke designs. The spacious Bentayga EWB cabin provides an ideal setting for an interplay of bold contrasts, with black Beluga interiors accented by Mandarin orange, reminiscent of the koi’s striking appearance.
The placement of embroidered and overlaid koi within the cabin was carefully planned; each fish appears to swim in a clockwise direction, reflecting beliefs associated with good fortune and perseverance. Additionally, the number six, considered auspicious in Chinese culture, is subtly incorporated, with six koi depicted throughout the interior.
Design details extend to the dashboard and treadplates, where a ‘ripple’ motif mimics the gentle movement of koi in water. Gold accents, including a rear pillar badge and trim inserts, further enhance the theme of prosperity and success.
Another collection takes inspiration from the historic painting A Thousand Miles of Rivers and Mountains by Wang Ximeng. Created during the Song Dynasty, this masterpiece captures the grandeur of China’s landscapes through vivid blue and green hues.
The Flying Spur Azure, renowned for its emphasis on comfort and well-being, serves as the foundation for this collection. Mulliner’s design team translated the painting’s essence into a refined blue interior, incorporating intricate embroidery and overlays that mirror the artwork’s serene natural beauty.
The original painting, considered a pinnacle of Chinese landscape art, embodies Daoist principles of harmony with nature. This interpretation within the Flying Spur reflects the same ideals, blending artistry with automotive luxury.
Another standout collection draws inspiration from the Ru Yi, a traditional Chinese ornament symbolising prosperity and the fulfilment of wishes. Typically shaped like a sceptre with a curved, cloud-like head, the Ru Yi is often crafted from materials such as jade, wood, or precious metals and is associated with blessings and good fortune.
The Flying Spur edition features three distinct colour specifications, each incorporating embroidered Ru Yi motifs in gold thread on the seats, complemented by silver overlays on the dashboard and treadplates. Gold accents extend to the vehicle’s exterior badging, enhancing its refined aesthetic.
Historically exchanged as gifts during significant celebrations, the Ru Yi continues to be a cherished symbol of good luck and success. This bespoke Bentley design pays homage to its cultural significance while seamlessly integrating it into a modern luxury vehicle.
Beyond these designs, the ‘Inspired by China’ series also includes collections celebrating dragons, lion dances, and playful pandas. Whether through embroidered details, eye-catching colour palettes, or symbolic elements such as bamboo-green accents, Mulliner’s craftsmanship shines through, offering a truly exclusive range tailored for the Chinese market.
