If you’re familiar with the luxury brand Hermes, you’ve likely noticed their iconic logo – a horse and carriage. But have you ever wondered why a horse was chosen as the symbol for this high-end fashion house? In this article, we’ll explore the history and meaning behind the Hermes logo.
The Origins of Hermes
Hermes was founded in 1837 by Thierry Hermes as a harness workshop in Paris. The company quickly gained a reputation for crafting high-quality saddles and bridles for horses. As time went on, Hermes began to expand their product line to include other leather goods such as bags, wallets, and belts.
The Horse Connection
Given their roots in equestrianism, it’s no surprise that the horse became an important symbol for Hermes. In fact, the company’s first logo featured a Duc carriage pulled by a horse.
The Evolution of the Logo
Over time, the horse became even more prominent in Hermes branding. In 1950, Robert Dumas – who was at the helm of the company at that time – commissioned artist Alfred de Dreux to create a new logo featuring a simpler horse and carriage design.
The resulting design is still used by Hermes today – a stylized horse and carriage with no text or additional elements. The image is typically displayed in either gold or silver on top of an orange background.
What Does It Mean?
So why did Hermes choose a horse as their logo? There are several potential explanations:
- Equestrian Heritage: As we’ve already mentioned, horses played an integral role in the early days of Hermes. Choosing a horse as their logo could be seen as paying homage to their equestrian roots.
- Strength & Grace: Horses are often associated with strength, speed, and grace.
These are all qualities that could be seen as desirable for a luxury brand like Hermes.
- Timeless Appeal: Horses have been used in art and design for centuries. Choosing a horse as their logo could be seen as a way for Hermes to align themselves with this rich history and convey a sense of timelessness.
In Conclusion
While the exact reasoning behind the Hermes logo may never be known, there’s no denying its impact. The simple yet elegant design has become synonymous with luxury and sophistication – just like the brand itself. The next time you see that iconic horse and carriage, you’ll know a little bit more about what it represents.