A short chassis codenamed Chassidaer, the 2.88 m wheelbase Type C7 marked the beginning of the “razor edge” bodywork that became a characteristic of Voisin cars. The vehicles produced by the Avions Voisin factory at the end of 1926 shared the common qualities of safety, comfort, and lightweight elegance. Voisin felt strongly about this commitment and battled with professionals to gain acceptance of his ideas and to prove their accuracy.

With quiet and efficient sleeve-valve engines, and adjustable seats and suspension designed for the load of passengers, luggage, and fuel to be transported, the distribution of weight was of primary importance. Voisins in production at the factory had to meet the strict standards set by Gabriel Voisin himself including lowered center of gravity and improved visibility for the driver.

The original yet eccentric angular bodies were designed to provide daily motoring comfort and reliability without regard for the fashion of the day. The most striking of these production body styles was known as the Lumineuse (Luminous), which featured large windows that allowed not only plenty of light into the cabin, but resulted in stunning lines as well.

According to a history summary in prior advertising material on file, this C7 Lumineuse, chassis 15262, is one of the few examples known to exist, with another being housed in the Musée National Cité de l'Automobile in France. Chassis 15262 was sold new to a woman documented as “Mme. R” who lived near Orléans, France; she kept the Voisin until her passing in 1979, when it was purchased by a collector. While it subsequently received a sympathetic refurbishment by the experts at Établissements Tessier, the Lumineuse apparently retains its exceptional original Art Deco-style interior in very good condition and thus serves as an important, time-warp example. In the opinion of noted Voisin historian and author Pascal Courteault, this C7 is among the most original and unaltered examples of all surviving Voisin automobiles.

The Lumineuse was purchased by the Mullin Collection in Paris in 2009 and has been an integral part of the museum’s comprehensive Voisin display. Its stunning posture and countless fascinating original details will surely please even the most ardent enthusiast.

*Please note that all of the Lots in this Auction have been in long-term static storage at the Mullin Automotive Museum and may not be currently operational. They will require mechanical attention and in some cases significant restoration prior to any road use.