The third of four fascinating volumes presenting automotive mascots that serve a purpose beyond ornamentation. Artistically photographed and with expert narrative, the presentation is both informative and entertaining. 98 mascots are shown and most in life size. 21 French, 11 English, 59 American and 7 of other countries trace a chronology of design from 1900 to 2013. Many mascots do not appear in any other reference book.
This is a limited edition series. Volume II details a chronology of mascot design, through the years 1926 to 1933. Dating of mascots is a priority, with several corrections to the existing literature. 25% of the material presented is new to the mascot literature. Over 200 American, French and English designs are shown. Vol. I, 304 pages and Vol. III, 288 pages, are available to complete the 3 volume set of 880 pages with over 600 mascots detailed in large photos and expert narrative.
In 1934 car design altered radically Beginning with the 14 Chrysler Airflow, the automobile developed from a functional means of transportation to a symbol of advanced design, an arbiter of taste. The face of the car became the focus of the new style and originality: people began to recognize and differentiate cars primarily by their grilles. As automobile manufacturers observed this interest, they responded appropriately and called upon specialized, non-factory designers to display their virtuoso talents in this area. This in turn inspired the market, as the public awaited and discussed each design innovation: it was also an opportunity for participation by the public as custom grilles began to make their appearance. Through the '30s and '40s and into the '50s, grilles became each new year's new face of the automobile industry. Eventually, however, ecological and economic considerations began to take precedence: by the end of the '50s the designs of cars had progressed from individualized back to uniform. And their faces became one.
Over a period of two years we selected and photographed hundreds of car grilles while traveling intermittently throughout the United States. At first we sought out car shows and auctions: soon collectors began to come to us to ask if we would take personal portraits of their cars. We couldn't use every car we photographed. Here are the 101 best.
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