The collection
Rectangular bathroom sink with semicircular basin and dome-shaped shiny metal fixtures set on a stand of strap steel.
1936

Sink, Neuvogue

Designed by
Henry Dreyfuss (1904–1972) and Roy H. Zinkil (1890–1968)
Material
Porcelain, chromium-plated steel
Produced by
Crane Company, Chicago, Illinois
Dimensions
92.5 x 68 x 56.5 cm

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, the Liliane and David M. Stewart Collection, gift of Eric Brill, 2010.1213

Design is everywhere, including in our bathrooms where we use sinks, bathtubs, and toilets every day. Dreyfuss updated the designs of these standard items for Chicago’s prestigious Crane Company, which is still known today for its fine-quality fixtures and appliances. Dreyfuss’s Neuvogue line brought high style into the bathroom in a matching ensemble of sink, tub, and toilet that was advertised as “The Bath of Tomorrow.”

The sink is a porcelain rectangle with a semicircular basin and horizontal grooving on its exterior, emphasizing its streamlined qualities. Its patented geometric, chromium-plated water and drain controls are attached to the porcelain faucet housing.

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, photo: Denis Farley.