Important Design 
11 December 2014
Important Design 
213

Harley J. Earl

Firebird III model

USA, 1957
lacquer over cast resin, acrylic 6¼ h × 24 w × 8 d in (16 × 61 × 20 cm)
estimate: $20,000–30,000
result: $27,500
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Sold with four photographs, one artist's rendering on foamcore and four windshield castings.
provenance: Private collection, Detroit
literature: The Art and Colour of General Motors, Stein, ppg. 92, 97, 118-123 The Art of American Car Design: The Profession and Personalities, Armi, ppg. 95, 159, 160, 161, 162, 257-261, 268 A Century of Automotive Style: 100 Years of American Car Design, Lamm and Holls, ppg. 115, 118

print

Firebird III

Designed in 1958 under the leadership of the legendary Harley J. Earl, the General Motors Firebird III is among the most radical designs of the 20th century. Its space-age styling and advanced technology clearly reflect midcentury America's optimism about the future. 

This important studio model of the Firebird III dates to 1957, one year before the concept car was built. The model was lacquered black in order to best showcase the highlights of the form. In addition to the clear canopy top which the Firebird III was ultimately equipped, this model is sold with three speculative canopies: two in different shades of amber, and one in opaque black. 

The Firebird III is exemplary of the golden age of American car design, and this outstanding model represents an important moment in automotive history.

Images used with permission of The General Motors Media Archive.

 

 

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