Citation

Fallan K. J. Des. Hist. 2013; 26(1): 65-85.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013)

DOI

10.1093/jdh/eps051

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Taking a closer look at a characteristic mini-bicycle, the DBS Kombi, this paper seeks to explore the multifarious ways this iconic artefact affords material memories. Manufactured by the Norwegian company Jonas Oglaend A/S from 1967 to 1987, it has been a paradigmatic feature of the personal and social recollections of generations of Norwegians-including the author. Spurred by the considerable interest expressed recently in the Kombi bicycle as a vintage item, this study reflects on the role of material artefacts in mediating memories. Viewed against a backdrop of a broader trend often described as retro, or 'the culture of revival', personal engagement on the part of design historians with objects such as the Kombi bicycle may help to shed light on the inner workings of vintage culture and the notion of nostalgia in contemporary society.

Language: en