Photos By Gail

Norman Bel Geddes (1893 – 1958) was an influential American industrial designer known for his innovative and futuristic designs in the early to mid-20th century. One of his notable creations was the Patriot radio (1940): a sleek and modern tabletop radio that showcased Geddes’ forward-thinking design sensibilities. It was a departure from the traditional boxy and ornate designs of radios at the time. Instead, Geddes envisioned a streamlined and futuristic appearance for the Patriot, incorporating modern materials and a distinct visual aesthetic.

The radio featured clean lines and smooth curves, giving it a dynamic and aerodynamic appearance. It was made predominantly of Bakelite, a popular synthetic material in that era, which allowed for intricate detailing and could be molded into complex shapes, which Geddes took full advantage of in the radio’s design.

The front of the radio had a large circular speaker grille, which was a prominent visual element. Surrounding the grille, Geddes incorporated a series of concentric rings or ridges that added depth and visual interest to the design. The control knobs and tuning dials were positioned below the speaker grille, emphasizing their importance in the overall aesthetic.

The color palette of the Patriot radio varied, but it often featured bold and contrasting combinations. Some versions had a two-tone design, with the main body of the radio in one color and the speaker grille and control knobs in a complementary color. This added to the visual appeal and modern feel of the radio.

Geddes’ Patriot radio represented a departure from the conservative and traditional designs of the time. It embraced the emerging industrial design movement and reflected the optimism and progressive spirit of the pre-war and early World War II era. The radio’s sleek and futuristic appearance made it a standout piece in many households, capturing the imagination of consumers looking for a glimpse of what the future might hold.

While the radio was visually striking, it’s worth noting that its performance and technological features were not revolutionary. It was primarily a high-quality AM radio, as FM broadcasting was not yet widely available at the time. The emphasis of the design was on its aesthetic appeal rather than groundbreaking functionality.

Today, Norman Bel Geddes‘ Patriot radio is considered a classic example of mid-20th century industrial design. It represents the vision of a future that never quite materialized, but its enduring design and cultural significance continue to be appreciated by collectors and design enthusiasts.

Photographed in The Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC