Description: VINTAGE Les Grandes Routières COFFEE TABLE BOOK In the years leading up to the Second World War, the aristocracy and wealthy individuals of continental Europe enjoyed a life of unparalleled privilege and opulence, surpassing the extravagance of today's so-called Jet-Set. Among European countries, France, long regarded as the arbiter of fashion and the center of the cultural universe, epitomized this lifestyle. The leisured and affluent revolved their lives around seasonal residences in Parisian townhouses and indulged in the opulence of the grand Palace Hotels. In this world, wealth, talent, titles, and status were valued, but above all, it was Style that held the highest esteem. Following the First World War, the motor car became an integral part of life, serving not only as a means of transportation but also as a vehicle for showcasing one's affluence and social standing. It was against this backdrop of extravagance, exhibitionism, culture, couture, art, and arrogance that a distinct phenomenon of automobile creation emerged, known in French as Les Grandes Routières. These were the magnificent French grand touring cars of the 1920s and 1930s, blending engineering perfection from esteemed manufacturers such as Hispano-Suiza, Bugatti, Delage, Delahaye, and Talbot-Lago with the pinnacle of coachbuilding artistry by renowned carrosseries like Saoutchik, Vanvooren, Letourneur et Marchand, and Figoni et Falaschi. In the captivating book, "Les Grandes Routières," William Stobbs delves into the history and evolution of these remarkable creations within the unique setting of the era and the elegant way of life that nurtured them. Beyond describing the milieu and the cars themselves, the author explores the factories where these masterpieces were produced and introduces the influential and unconventional men who inspired their creation. Enhanced by 170 stunning color photographs, many specially captured for this book, "Les Grandes Routières" showcases the finest examples of these extraordinary vehicles, each a testament to the motor car elevated to the status of a true work of art.
Price: 33.75 USD
Location: North Hollywood, California
End Time: 2024-12-26T05:46:31.000Z
Shipping Cost: 7 USD
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Item Specifics
All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Binding: Hardcover
Language: English
Special Attributes: Dust Jacket
Topic: French Luxury Cars
Country/Region of Manufacture: United Kingdom
Subject: Automobile
