Icons of Design: The 20th Century

by Volker Albus (Editor), Reyer Kras (Editor), Jonathan M. Woodham (Editor)

Design is the topic of the latest edition in Prestels series on Icons of the 20th Century, complementing the volumes already available on art, architecture, photography, and fashion. "Icons of Design" tells the story of 80 ordinary items which gained iconic status during the course of the 20th century. The introductory essay explains how an object becomes iconic, and the method the editors used to select the internationally diverse spectrum of design objects shown and discussed in the book. Raymond Loewys streamlined pencil sharpener, the classic Italian espresso maker, the VW bug, Lego, and Ron Arads bookworm shelf all earn their inclusion through the impact they have had on the history of 20th-century design. Concise and authoritative texts by leading experts in the field are complemented by sumptuous color photography, contemporary documentation, and biographies of featured designers. A selected bibliography and an index complete the booka vital addition to everybodys bookshelf. Even enthusiasts, collectors, and specialists will make many new discoveries.

Genres: Design

184 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2000

Reviews

[Conor Kennedy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really satisfying read on design through the century

[Kris McCracken · Rating 3 out of 5]

A selection of furniture, accessories, household appliances, vehicles and toys that achieved iconic status over the course of the twentieth century. A great use of text and image, well worth a gander. B.

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A reliable resource for art history.