Last Updated on January 30, 2021 by Netropolitan Museum
Less is more. This is an interesting parallel that is seen in pins issued for World Figure Skating Championships and European Figure Skating Championships held in Geneva, Switzerland. And when it comes to the pin made to commemorate the 1968 World Figure Skating Championships, this parallel is perhaps best demonstrated.
Made of a silver-colored base metal, the pin features intricately detailed pairs skaters as the central design element, one of the most interesting and unique elements ever seen on a World Championship pin. The figures incorporate both motion and style, appearing to be performing an entertaining exhibition or show number. Their animated arms and legs create life and personality. Notice how the extension and positioning of the arms almost make it seem as if there are too many arms. (There aren’t.)
… The pin features intricately detailed pairs skaters as the central design element, one of the most interesting and unique elements ever seen on a World Championship pin.
The level of detail in the skaters—from the fine lines in the hair to the elaborate decoration in the costumes to the sleek skate blades—reflects exceptional quality in both concept and production; it is Swiss precision and design sensibility at its finest. To the right of the skaters, the event name, year, and city are neatly and cleanly worked in: “Mondiaux 1968 Genéve.” All the information that anyone needs. Less is more.
At 7/8″ in diameter (2.2225 cm), the pin is small in size but large in style. The texture of the base metal surface and the relief in the skaters and lettering create additional visual interest and appeal. Of note is that the pin was produced in both pinback and stickpin styles.
For more Swiss design sensibility, see the blog post about the less-is-more pin issued for the 1962 European Figure Skating Championships. Enjoy Moins est Plus. 1968.
1968 World Championships Gallery
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