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Object Timeline

1942

  • Work on this object began.

1946

  • Work on this object ended.

1996

2007

2015

2024

  • You found it!

Silver Streak Iron

This is a Iron. It is dated 1942–46 and we acquired it in 1996. Its medium is molded and emulsion-painted pyrex glass, cast and nickle-plated steel, molded phenolic plastic resin and rubber, fabric (cord). It is a part of the Product Design and Decorative Arts department.

In response to metal shortages during World War II, Saunders Machine & Tool Corporation partnered with Corning Glassworks to develop this Silver Streak iron with a durable and heat-resistant shell and handle of Pyrex. The iron’s sleek body and aerodynamic shape are examples of the streamlined design trend of the 1930s and 40s, a hallmark of the industrial design movement.

It is credited Museum purchase from Decorative Arts Association Acquisition Fund.

Its dimensions are

H x W x D: 13.8 x 9.8 x 23 cm (5 7/16 x 3 7/8 x 9 1/16 in.)

It has the following markings

Molded in base of glass shroud: "PYREX" Engraved in metal base at foot: Silver Streak Engraved in metal heel rest: Saunders since 1858/Model 1038/1000 watts/110-120 volts/A-C only

Cite this object as

Silver Streak Iron; USA; molded and emulsion-painted pyrex glass, cast and nickle-plated steel, molded phenolic plastic resin and rubber, fabric (cord); H x W x D: 13.8 x 9.8 x 23 cm (5 7/16 x 3 7/8 x 9 1/16 in.); Museum purchase from Decorative Arts Association Acquisition Fund; 1996-39-1

This object was previously on display as a part of the exhibition IDEO Selects: Works from the Permanent Collection.

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If you would like to cite this object in a Wikipedia article please use the following template:

<ref name=CH>{{cite web |url=https://collection.cooperhewitt.org/objects/18653577/ |title=Silver Streak Iron |author=Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum |accessdate=19 April 2024 |publisher=Smithsonian Institution}}</ref>