Ko Verzuu Automobile Model by Ko Verzuu for Ado, the Netherlands 1939

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A rare model 978 wooden automobile designed by ko verzuu for ado in the netherlands, circa 1939. Its flowing, almost … Read more A rare model 978 wooden automobile designed by ko verzuu for ado in the netherlands, circa 1939. Its flowing, almost aerodynamic silhouette distinguishes it from verzuu’s more rectilinear vehicles and gives this small car a surprisingly sculptural presence. Predominantly finished in vivid red, the automobile features a silver-painted front and wheels, with flashes of yellow visible inside. The sweeping roof, long bonnet and rounded rear are reduced to a handful of beautifully considered lines. The original ado badge remains mounted prominently to the front. Ko verzuu was the driving creative force behind ado and designed hundreds of toys between the 1920s and 1960s. Ado originated from the occupational therapy workshops associated with the berg en bosch tuberculosis sanatorium, where recovering patients produced wooden objects as part of their rehabilitation. Under verzuu’s direction, these workshops created some of the most distinctive modernist toys of the twentieth century. Verzuu found inspiration in the progressive dutch design surrounding him, particularly de stijl and the work of gerrit rietveld. Rather than making detailed miniature copies, he reduced cars, trucks and buildings to elementary forms, strong lines and carefully chosen colors. The result was durable enough for children yet sophisticated enough to be appreciated today as design. This model 978 shows considerable traces of its original life. The red paint has worn beautifully along the edges, revealing the wood underneath. Almost ninety years later, this honest played-with patina adds character and individuality to an object that today feels as much like a small modernist sculpture as a toy. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



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