Chassis No. 005408
Engine No. 0E00616

Despite the French automobile industry's rich and varied trajectory in the early 20th century, the country's large rural population lagged behind the upper class in adopting personal cars, amplified by the devastation of WWII. The Citroën 2CV—or Deux Chevaux (Two Horses)—emerged in 1948 after being shelved for almost a decade, initially powered by a 375 cc two-cylinder engine delivering nine horsepower and a modest top speed of 40 mph.

This early example of a 2CV is distinguished by its unique "ripple” hood design and full-length canvas roof that extends from the passenger compartment to the engine bay. Chassis number 005408 is an Italian-delivery example, wearing hand-painted Italian registration markings and showcasing a quintessential gray paint scheme with body-color wheels. The interior maintains what appear to be its original, grey cloth-upholstered “picnic” seats embodying the minimalist design philosophy of post-war France. Period-correct details abound, from the original French Glace Securit, or safety glass, to the authentic Cibié headlamps fitted with correct French-yellow bulbs. The car rides on older Michelin Pilote tires, while a 1980 French registration sticker affixed to the windscreen indicates that the vehicle spent some time in its country of origin.

Since entering the Academy of Art University Collection in 2014, the car has been maintained including cleaning out the fuel tank and fuel lines shortly after acquisition. Other work reportedly included re-sleeving the master cylinder, rebuilding the front wheel cylinders, replacing the rear wheel cylinders, and painting and cleaning the front drum brakes. This charming symbol of French post-war mobility is offered with a spare and lug wrench.