Part two! The first can be found here.
This remarkable vintage book* was picked up at a library sale by a sibling, and is now my favorite picture book. Why? It is a guide to the brave new world of color photography, using examples taken by a team of professional photographers on a continental (and American) adventure. Better yet, it is set in the colorful, colorful world of 1972!
*All images are copyright 1972 by Hamyln House and taken by Van Phillips and Owen Thomas. I do not own the right to reproduce these photos. The publisher still exists, but I can find no mention of this book online. It is unlikely that they renewed the copyright this long out of print, since color photography needs no introduction; I don’t think they would mind me sharing a few partial images online after 50 years has elapsed. Please tell me if you have any information regarding this. Enjoy.
There are many Citroëns outside the Arc de Triomphe on this particular day; 2CVs, HY Vans, Amis, and DSes abound! I have counted seven altogether. This scene would not be as remarkable to its contemporaries, but our modern eyes find it interesting indeed.
This photo taken under a rather large flag (middle, not left) contains some perplexing finds. What is that little red car parked on the right? I can’t identify anything new here, but I’m sure Oppo can. Rallydarkstrike, I’m looking at you!
What is that small van? It seems familiar, as does that cat-eyed silver sedan.
Update: According to Oppo’s own Fintail, “the silver car is a Ford Taunus 17m “Badewanne.” Van could also be a Ford Taunus, or perhaps a Hanomag or similar. The “NM” license plate prefix is for the Bavarian town of Neumarkt in der Oberpfalz.”
(center) A Chevrolet? In Italy? Do you have your money on American Diplomat or visiting Capitalist? Based on the fintail Mercedes and other expensive looking cars, I assume this imposing architecture houses some sort of embassy or government office. Darn those brash Americans and their ostentatious coupes!
Update: Fintail pointed out that the black sedan is a Fiat 2100/2300 and the Volvo behind it is a 444/544. The The place is the central market (Grand-Place) in Brussels.
So, what can you spot in this edition of “Carspotting, in THE PAST!” There really are not many pictures in this book where cars figure prominently, but I can get two more posts out if you would like.