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‘Bluebird’ Sparton Model 566

Walter Dorwin Teague and Sparton Corporation

‘Bluebird’ Sparton Model 566

1930-1940

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‘Bluebird’ Sparton Model 566

1930-1940

Physical Qualities Mirrored glass, chrome, wood, 14 7/8 x 14 1/2 x 5 3/4 in. (37.8 x 36.8 x 14.6 cm)
Credit Line Purchase with exchange funds from Gift of Marion Lee Brown, Gift of Mrs. Matthew Hirsch, Gift of Isabel Powell Kilmer, Gift of Saidie A. May, Gift of Eleanor P. Spencer, and Gift of Eleanor L. Turnbull
Object Number 1998.106
This sleek blue radio with chrome accents is inspired by the shape of music albums and film reels from the 1930s. At-home radios were becoming increasingly popular at the time and could broadcast the soundtracks of modern American life, from jazz music to talk shows. Teague unveiled this Bluebird model as a part of a strategic partnership with the Sparton Corporation, which, as a member of the auto industry in Michigan, introduced fully electric car horns in 1911 and American’s first electric radio in 1926.
Christie's auction, sale 8107, June 9, 1998.
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Benskin, Elizabeth, and Suzy Wolffe. Teacher's Guide to the American Collection. Baltimore, MD: Baltimore Museum of Art, 2014, pages 69 and 76.
Christies: 20th Century Decorative Design : 9 September 2005 est. sale value $3,000 - 5,000.

Inscribed: FACE, 'SPARTON/JACKSON MICHIGAN/MADE IN/U.S.A.'

Designer

Walter Dorwin Teague

1882–1959

American, 1883-1960
Meet Walter Dorwin Teague

Manufacturer

Sparton Corporation

1899–2000

Jackson, Michigan, 1900-present
Meet Sparton Corporation

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