1997.38, Soda King syphon bottle, Norman Bel Geddes (designer), Walter Kidde Sales Co. (manufacturer), c. 1935

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.

Geddes_Norman Bel: ULAN: 50024541

Bloomfield (New Jersey): TGN: 2064131

Streamlined Moderne: 300212738

About 1935: Walter Kidde Sales Co. (manufacturer), Bloomfield, New Jersey

Until 1991: David T. Owsley (collector), New York, New York 

1993-1997: Dallas Museum of Art, longterm loan from David T. Owsley (collector) on 10/13/1993 [1]

From 1997: Dallas Museum of Art, gift of David T. Owsley (collector) via the Alconda-Owsley Foundation on 5/19/1997 [2]

[1] According to the following documents found in the DMA object file: DMA Object receipt (dated October 13, 1993)

[2] According to the following documents found in the DMA object file: David T. Owsley's Deed of Gift (dated May 19, 1997), DMA Committee on Collections agenda (dated May 20, 1997), DMA Committee on Collections record (dated May 20, 1997)

PBS American Experience~Read more about Industrial Designers and Streamliners

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

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