Rare and highly collectible AEG electric toaster model 247421, manufactured in Germany and belonging to one of the most iconic toaster designs ever produced by Allgemeine Elektricitäts-Gesellschaft (AEG). This remarkable model originates from the celebrated design tradition established by Peter Behrens (1868–1940), the pioneering German architect, designer, typographer and artistic consultant of AEG. Behrens is widely regarded as the father of modern corporate design and created one of the world's first complete corporate identities, encompassing architecture, industrial products, graphics, advertising and typography. Among Behrens' students and collaborators were some of the greatest names in modern architecture, including Walter Gropius, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Charles-Édouard Jeanneret, later known as Le Corbusier. The present toaster belongs to a family of AEG designs produced from the 1930s through the 1950s and is considered one of the style icons of German industrial design. Together with the famous oval-cutout version, it represents an important precursor to the Bauhaus and post-war functionalist aesthetic that would influence industrial design worldwide. Constructed from chrome-plated steel with elegant geometric ventilation openings, the toaster combines functionality with a striking architectural appearance. The ingenious mechanism allows the bread to be toasted on one side and then automatically turned by opening the side flap using the Bakelite controls. The flap is then closed again for toasting the second side. The toaster retains its beautiful original braided textile power cord and is accompanied by its original AEG cardboard box, an increasingly rare survival that significantly enhances its collector appeal. Manufacturer: AEG (Allgemeine Elektricitäts-Gesellschaft), Germany Designer / Design Tradition: Peter Behrens Design Tradition The underside is stamped: AEG PL-Nr. 247421 125 V – 450 W The polished metal surfaces display a beautiful authentic patina consistent with age and careful use. A remarkable decorative and collectible piece representing the golden age of German industrial design. Dimensions Width: 21 cm Depth: 12 cm Height: 16 cm Weight: 796 g Very Important note: this toaster has never been electrically tested, as it is rated 125 V – 450 W. Since modern European electrical systems generally operate at 220–240 V, we strongly advise not to connect the appliance to the mains. The object is sold strictly as a collector’s and historical display piece, representing one of the earliest domestic electrical appliances created for everyday household use. Condition: Good vintage condition with normal signs of age and use. Original braided cord, Bakelite plug and original AEG box included. Not electrically tested and not sold for practical use. Please carefully examine all photographs as they form an integral part of the description.