1930s Singer Ribbonaire Bakelite Desk Fan Art Deco Streamline MoMA Design
By Singer Sewing Machine Co., W. O. Langille
Located in St. Louis, MO
An iconic piece of American Streamline Moderne industrial design, this Singer Ribbonaire Model 6-1 electric desk fan is executed in rich brown molded Bakelite with its classic silk ribbon blades with 2- speed motor. Adjustable Bakelite body is in great condition, works beautifully. Patented in 1931 by W.O. Langille for the Singer Sewing Machine Company, the Ribbonaire revolutionized table fan technology by replacing hazardous metal blades with flexible fabric ribbons, creating a safe, whisper-quiet breeze. Its sleek, aerodynamic housing and teardrop base reflect the height of 1930s Art Deco aesthetics. Recognized for its historic contribution to industrial design, the model is held in the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York. Dimensions Height: 10" – 11" (25.4 – 27.9 cm), Width: 4.5" (11.4 cm), Depth: 7" (17.8 cm) Details: Model: Ribbonaire Model 6-1 Designer: W.O. Langille Manufacturer: Singer Sewing Machine Co. / Diehl Manufacturing Co. Period: Circa 1930s Style: Art Deco / Streamline Moderne / Industrial Modernism Materials: Molded Bakelite, Fabric Ribbons, Electrical Wiring Adjustability: Features a pivot mechanism allowing the head to tilt backwards and forwards to direct airflow. Condition: Fine working vintage condition. The dark brown Bakelite body retains a glossy, rich sheen with no major chips, cracks, or structural damage. Motor runs smoothly and functions as intended. The power cord and fabric ribbons are intact and in fine condition, displaying light age-appropriate wear consistent with gentle use. Period: 1930–1939 Styles: Art Deco, Streamline Moderne, Machine Age, Industrial Place of Origin: United States Materials: Bakelite, Plastic, Silk Fabric Keywords: Singer Ribbonaire fan...
1930s American Art Deco Vintage W. O. Langille Furniture
Silk, Bakelite
