French theorist Roland Barthes famously described the Citroën DS as an “object from another universe.” “The Goddess – La Déesse: Investigations on the Legendary Citroën DS,” a book by Christian Sumi, delves into the iconic car’s history and enduring appeal. This Citroën DS book offers a comprehensive look at the vehicle that revolutionized automotive design and captured the world’s imagination.
Deconstructing an Icon: Design and Technology of the Citroën DS
Sumi’s Citroën DS book explores the car’s unique fusion of form and technology, which propelled it to iconic status. He revisits a 2001 essay by Alison and Peter Smithson and draws upon the Citroën archives to analyze how the DS became, and remains, a coveted object of desire for designers, philosophers, and even politicians. The book examines how the DS seamlessly integrated modern aesthetics with groundbreaking technology, setting a new standard for automotive design that continues to inspire awe. Beyond its striking form, the DS also revolutionized comfort and safety, aspects explored in detail in the book.
Chronicling the Evolution: From Concept to Icon
To understand the DS’s evolution, the Citroën DS book meticulously presents picture series and drawings by Flaminio Bertoni, the legendary Italian designer behind the car, and the Citroën design team. This chronological visual journey traces the DS from its initial conception as a replacement for the 1934 Traction Avant to the numerous iterations that followed its 1955 debut. Michel Zumbrunn’s photographs capture the different DS models from various angles, highlighting the relationship between their parts, contour lines, and technical parameters.
Beyond Design: The Cultural Impact of the Citroën DS
This Citroën DS book goes beyond the technical aspects, examining the cultural impact and lasting legacy of the car. It showcases iconic advertising campaigns from the 1950s and 60s, providing a glimpse into the era and demonstrating the DS’s enduring relevance. These examples, drawn from magazines and other media, place the DS within a broader contemporary and philosophical context. By analyzing the car’s image in the media and its reception by customers, the book reveals the secrets to its extraordinary success.
Exploring the “Goddess”: A Citroën DS Book for Enthusiasts
“The Goddess – La Déesse: Investigations on the Legendary Citroën DS” offers a compelling exploration of one of the most significant automobiles ever created. Through detailed analysis, archival materials, and stunning visuals, the book provides an in-depth understanding of the DS’s design, technology, and cultural impact. This Citroën DS book is a must-read for anyone interested in automotive history, design, and the enduring legacy of innovation.
