THE BEAUTY OF SPEED

«We declare that the splendor of the world has been enriched by a new beauty: the beauty of speed. A racing automobile with its bonnet adorned with great tubes like serpents with explosive breath ... a roaring motor car which seems to run on machine-gun fire, is more beautiful than the Victory of Samothrace.»

 

 

 

 

Scene no 46: Racing, roaring, motor cars (Unknown manufacturer, tin toy models) on the road bend (Bush model building item, Road Curve, ΗΟ/ΤΤ 1103).

The text: The fourth statement from the Manifesto of Futurism, by Filippo Tommaso Marinetti.  

BLOOD’S CRIMSON

  Hell grant soon we hear again the swords clash!

  And the shrill neighs of destriers in battle rejoicing,

  Spiked breast to spiked breast opposing!

  Better one hour’s stour than a year’s peace

  With fat boards, bawds, wine and frail music!

  Bah! there’s no wine like the blood’s crimson!

 

Scene no 45: Knights in ambush (Britains toys, Mini Set 1082, 1:42 scale mini-scenic models).

The verses: From "Sestina: Altaforte" by Ezra Pound.