During the 1930s, American manufacturers found that their sales were dropping under the weight of the Great Depression. In an effort to boost sales many firms redesigned their products in the fashionable streamlined taste which had developed out of art deco design. This Soda King syphon bottle is an excellant example of this new "modern" look with its chromed surface, rounded edges, and enameled metal.

The presence of the designer's name engraved on the bottom of this object is important. Norman Bel Geddes (1893-1958) was one of this country's most famous industrial designers during the second quarter of the 20th century. By marking its wares with his name, the manufacturer hoped to increase sales to consumers who desired "designer" products.

Adapted from

DMA unpublished material.

PBS American Experience
Read more about Industrial Designers and Streamliners

Norman Bel Geddes
Learn more about furniture and industrial designer Norman Bel Geddes