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Original Artwork for Lionel Morris's Antique Cars
1908. Finely executed watercolor illustration of a 1908 Fiat 12/16 HP, created for Lionel Harris’s Antique Cars: The Story of the Automobile in Pictures, first published circa 1968.
The 1908 Fiat 12/16 HP represents a significant milestone in the evolution of early automotive design, embodying the robust engineering and refined aesthetics that Fiat brought to the forefront in the early 20th century. This model showcases the brand's commitment to blending performance with style, reflecting the growing demand for reliable, well-crafted vehicles during this period.
The Fiat 12/16 HP was equipped with a partially enclosed passenger compartment, offering a balance between protection and an open-air motoring experience. The exterior, with its understated yet elegant lines, featured a sophisticated dark color palette that highlighted the vehicle's fine craftsmanship. Brass elements and polished fittings underscored the model’s luxurious appeal, while the interior featured comfortable leather seating and thoughtful ergonomic design, emphasizing both driver and passenger comfort.
Powered by a 12-16 horsepower engine, the Fiat delivered consistent and reliable performance, reflecting the advanced engineering of its time. The vehicle’s robust four-cylinder engine was paired with a manual transmission, offering smooth power delivery to the rear wheels. Its suspension system, designed to handle the uneven roads of the era, ensured a relatively smooth ride, while the steering system provided precise handling—an important feature for early drivers.
The Fiat 12/16 HP helped set the standard for mid-range vehicles of its era, balancing affordability with luxury. Its success contributed to Fiat's growing reputation as a leader in automotive innovation and design, influencing the direction of European car manufacturing during the early 1900s. The model remains a classic example of the period's automotive advances, admired for its engineering prowess and stylish design.
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![Monstre Marin Echoué le 5. Mars 1761. à quatre Lieues de Boulogne sur Mer Poisson à 49. pièds de longuèur de la tête à la queue, 29. pièds de Circonfèrènce pris au milieu Prèsenté à Monseigneur Bèirriér Ministre Et Sècretair d'Etat département de la Marine [Marine Monster Stranded on March 5, 1761, four leagues from Boulogne sur Mer. Fish 49 feet long from head to tail, 29 feet in circumference taken in the middle, Presented to Monseigneur Bèirriér, Minister and Secretary of State, Department of the Navy]](https://storage.googleapis.com/raremaps/img/small/104188.jpg)
