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Object Timeline

  • We acquired this object.

1934

  • Work on this object began.

2015

2026

Model 566 Bluebird Radio Radio

This is a radio. It was designed by Walter Dorwin Teague and manufactured by Sparton Corporation. It is dated 1934. Its medium is glass, chrome-plated steel, wood, paint, textile, electronic components. It is a part of the Product Design and Decorative Arts department.

Between 1934 and 1936, pioneer industrial designer Teague designed a series of radios for the Sparton Corporatoin. Teague's creations departed from the conventional wooden-cabinet radios that resembled historicized case furniture. This radio's circular, blue-mirrored-glass face and linear chrome decoration celebrate pure geometry, perfect for a modernist interior.

This object was donated by George R. Kravis II. It is credited Gift of George R. Kravis II.

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Its dimensions are

H x W x D: 36.2 × 36.8 × 17.8 cm (14 1/4 in. × 14 1/2 in. × 7 in.)

Cite this object as

Model 566 Bluebird Radio Radio; Designed by Walter Dorwin Teague (American, 1883–1960); Manufactured by Sparton Corporation; glass, chrome-plated steel, wood, paint, textile, electronic components; H x W x D: 36.2 × 36.8 × 17.8 cm (14 1/4 in. × 14 1/2 in. × 7 in.); Gift of George R. Kravis II; 2018-22-1

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<ref name=CH>{{cite web |url=https://collection.cooperhewitt.org/objects/68814023/ |title=Model 566 Bluebird Radio Radio |author=Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum |accessdate=13 February 2026 |publisher=Smithsonian Institution}}</ref>