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History of industrial craftsmanship in focus at Auto Museum
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SHANGHAI Auto Museum has kicked off a new exhibition chronicling more than a century and a half of industrial craftsmanship.
On view are over 100 items from the fields of automotive design, tourism, consumer appliances and architecture. The exhibition focuses on the rapid societal changes which have taken place since the industrial revolution, as well as the fascinating stories behind the products that have defined modern living since the mid-1800s.
The show features several early mass-produced home consumer products, including an original Singer sewing machine and Victor Horn Gramophone, both of which were first created in 1903 and embody the elegant design sensibilities of the early 20th century.
Other modern artifacts from that era include a vintage camera, a tea set, a suitcase, a radio, a watch and a bottle opener.
Of course, being at a museum dedicated to automotive history, there are also plenty of cars on view, including rare vehicles from Rolls-Royce, Mercedes-Benz, Citroen, Ferrari and BMW. These classics span the earliest days of automobiles up to the 1970s, and show how modern vehicle designs still draw inspiration from antique cars.
One of the highlights is a 1935 Auburn 851 SC, which appeared in the film “The Great Gatsby.” The car was popular for its luxurious configuration and powerful engine. Unlike many other American cars at that time, the Auburn 851 SC could produce 150 horsepower from an eight cylinder engine. The car’s exterior design is also unforgettable, with its curvaceous wheel hubs and Art Deco flourishes. In its heyday, Auburn cars were favored by movie stars, financiers and speed races. But as an unabashed luxury brand, Auburn was crushed by the belt-tightening of the Great Depression.
Another design masterpiece on view is Harry Bertoia’s “diamond chair,” first created in 1952. This chair was considered a breakthrough in its day due to its unconventional wire-rod construction. It later became part of the Bertoia Collection for Knoll Associates.
According to curator Shen Danji, the exhibition is a bridge between the past and the present. The items represent the lifestyles and ideals of people from different eras.
Visitors can also take part in simulated speed races and other interactive games. Old gasoline pumps, portable oil carts, vending machines and telephones are also on display.
Date: Through January 31, 2017 (closed on Mondays), 9:30am-4:30pm
Venue: Shanghai Auto Museum, 7565 Boyuan Rd
Tel: 6955-0055
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