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A comprehensive monograph that explores the past, present and future of one of the world’s most iconic footwear brands.
Not many brands can pride themselves in knowing that their product is instantly recognizable without a logo, but Birkenstock is definitely one of them. Founded in the 1770s in Germany, Birkenstock has been making quality shoes for the past 250 years. With Old Mills Never Die, publisher Steidl provides the first and most complete exploration of the past, present and future of this renowned company. The set comprises five books, wrapped in Furoshiki cloth and packaged in a beautiful wooden box, a fitting way to celebrate the history of Birkenstock and its 250 years of family tradition in quality footwear production. Each book delves into a different aspect of the brand’s story, from its beginnings to its more recent collaborations with fashion powerhouses like Dior and Valentino.
The Book of Birkenstock is a visual, image-led chronicle of the company’s history, featuring behind the scenes photos of the production process as well as an in-depth view of Birkenstock’s relationship with the health and fashion industries. Additionally, the book honors the brand’s dedication to quality design and craftsmanship. It features a debossed cover, carefully chosen paper stock, high-quality printing, and art direction by Bureau Borsche.
Complementing the Book of Birkenstock, Walk This Way offers a great view of the company’s archives, with photographs by Henry Leutwyler. Factories by Werner Bartsch provides a glimpse into the manufacturing process, documenting the way the company’s over 6,000 employees use both advanced technology and hand craftsmanship to create the famous sandals. In Golborne Road, fine art and fashion photographer Juergen Teller documents the way everyday people wear Birkenstocks, while Graphic Designer presents the art and typography work of Carl Birkenstock.
From family traditions to high-end technology, from collaborations with fashion houses to photos that show how Birkenstocks are wardrobe staples for everyday people, Old Mills Never Die provides the first complete exploration of Birkenstock’s history, cultural impact and legacy. A great gift for fashion and design lovers, this set will be available in the Gessato Design Store. Photography© Steidl.
