American Design Book by The Museum of Modern Art

American design, like much of American culture, perennially oscillates between populism and elitism, between the revolutionary beauty and availability of Tupperware and the elusive exclusivity of Tiffany’s.

In this series dedicated to industrial and graphic design of American design achievements and illustrates its particular design history, showcasing renowned architects and designers through exemplary works drawn from MoMA’s collection.

This book traces the development of American design from the “armory practice” of early American machinists, through mid-century “design for modern living,” to the branded, consumer-oriented design of the present day, including work by Charles and Ray Eames, Raymond Loewy, and Frank Gehry, among many others. Includes 136 illustrations and an introduction by Paola Antonelli, Senior Curator in the Department of Architecture and Design at the Museum.