Rolls-Royce presents world's first laser-engraved bonnet

Rolls-Royce has unveiled the Phantom Arabesque, a one-of-one Phantom Extended that showcases traditional mashrabiya latticework (a defining feature in Middle East architectural design) via its laser-engraved bonnet.

Curated by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Private Office Dubai, one of five invitation-only commissioning hubs in key global luxury destinations around the world, the Phantom Arabesque is the first Rolls-Royce in history to be graced with a fully laser-engraved bonnet.

The one-of-one Phantom Arabesque was curated by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Private Office Dubai

This newly patented technique is the result of a five-year development programme led by the marque's Exterior Surface Centre. It draws inspiration from the Italian sgraffito technique - the artistic practice of revealing contrasting layers of colour by precisely removing upper surfaces.

To achieve the effect, the bonnet is first painted in a darker colour, then sealed beneath multiple layers of clear coat before a lighter top layer is applied. The geometric mashrabiya pattern is then engraved to a depth of just 145–190 microns into the uppermost surface, revealing the darker tone beneath. The result is a richly textured, three-dimensional surface that catches the light.

Each of the engraved areas is meticulously hand-sanded to ensure an even, sculptural finish. By integrating the pattern within the paint itself rather than applying it on top, this method achieves an exceptional level of refinement and durability, while variations in laser velocity and intensity create subtle visual shifts as light moves across the surface.

This newly patented technique is the result of a five-year development programme led by the marque's Exterior Surface Centre

The Phantom Arabesque is presented in a Bespoke two-tone finish, with the main body in Diamond Black and the upper surfaces in contrasting Silver. The same colour is used for the single hand-painted Short Coachline, which is elevated with a mashrabiya motif. The exterior is further enhanced with an illuminated Pantheon grille, set within a Dark Chrome surround and complemented by an uplit Spirit of Ecstasy figurine, as well as 22-inch part-polished alloy wheels.

Its interior centrepiece is presented within the Gallery, which runs the full width of the front fascia. An intricate Bespoke marquetry artwork crafted from Blackwood and Black Bolivar wood echoes the mashrabiya design cues and is subtly elevated with an offset clock presented in a complementary dark colourway.

The interior suite is finished in serene Selby Grey and Black leathers with Black seat piping and carpets, elevated by contrasting Black mashrabiya motifs embroidered on the front and rear headrests. Mesmerising Starlight Doors are trimmed with Selby Grey piping and Black contrast stitching. Illuminated treadplates bearing a cross-section of the bonnet engraving motif complete this landmark commission.