The inspiration for this unusual burlesque 'show came from the wealth of images of Ferraris and other supercars, enhanced by the presence of equally desirable women. Ferraris have been compared to seductive temptresses, an analogy these images both play on and reinforce.

So how to prove this theory? First, one of the most desirable cars in history. The 1961 250 GT California Spider, once owned by Hollywood idol James Coburn, fitted the bill.

The shape and contours of this particular Ferrari evoke the female form in a literal way. From the plunging décolletage of its dashboard, to the taut skin-like texture 'of the leather seats, this classic 250 California smoulders like a screen vixen.

The next step was to find a photographer with the eye and attitude to bring these suggestive features to the fore. Instantly, Rankin came 'to mind. One of the world's most successful photographers, he has earned a reputation 'for capturing the beauty of women, bringing out something sexy in his subjects - even famously drawing a playful smile from the Queen of England.

The brief was simple: to create a number 'of ambiguous and suggestive close-ups of the car to tease and titillate, culminating in a full-figure, but modestly lit, centerfold.

The classical beauty of the California is revealed slowly and sexily, as if it was the star of a burlesque act, the' Dita von Teese of cars. As Sophia Loren, that other famous Italian sex symbol whose beauty has defied the passing of time, once said:"Sex appeal is 50 per cent what you've got, and 50 per cent what people think you've got."

Rankin poured over every curve of the California as this most unconventional glamour shoot unfolded.

These 4 images of the irresistible, flirtatious and curvaceous 250 GT California Spider are preview images from the photo set by Rankin that can be seen in the lot listing here. They would make a striking addition to someone's home or garage and offers a unique opportunity to own a wonderful piece of art by one of the 21st century's most famous photographers.

Please note *There are some scuffs and marks on the images which were caused in transport and storage from the last exhibition.*