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Ken Dallison, The First Century. Portraits in Celebration of the Daimler-Benz Centennial 1886-1986, Montvale, New Jersey: Mercedes-Benz of North America Inc., 1986

127 pages including 50 full-color illustrations by Dallison; oversized landscape-format original black leather binding [approx. 13.25 x 17.25 in (34 x 44 cm)] with the Mercedes-Benz logo blind stamped on front board and beveled board edges housed in original linen clam shell slipcase furnished with blue velvet [approx. 15 x 18.5 in (38 x 47 cm)]

This Limited Edition of The First Century is limited to 2,050 copies, signed and numbered by the artist, Ken Dallison. Of these, 2,000 copies are numbered 1 to 2,000; and 50 copies, identified as Artist's Proofs, are numbered 1 to 50. All have been specially bound and boxed. This is edition no. 1277.

Ken Dallison's book The First Century is a collection of portraits and illustrations that celebrate the centennial of Daimler-Benz, the German multinational automotive corporation that was founded in 1886 by Karl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler. The book was published in 1986 to mark the company's 100th anniversary.

The book contains 50 full-color illustrations by Dallison, a renowned automotive artist who is known for his ability to capture the essence of classic cars and their drivers. The illustrations depict a wide range of Daimler-Benz vehicles, from the earliest horseless carriages to the most modern racing cars and luxury automobiles of the 1980s. Each illustration is accompanied by a brief historical description of the vehicle, highlighting its unique features and technological advancements.

The book also includes a detailed introduction to Daimler-Benz's history, from its humble beginnings in the late 19th century to its rise as a global leader in the automobile industry. The introduction provides insight into the company's innovative spirit, its commitment to excellence, and its enduring legacy.

In addition to the paintings and historical information, The First Century also features a foreword by Prof. Dr. Werner Breitschwerdt, former Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler-Benz AG. The foreword provides a personal and insightful perspective on the company's achievements and its impact on the automotive industry.

The First Century is considered to be one of the most comprehensive and visually stunning tributes to Daimler-Benz ever published. It is highly sought after by collectors of automotive art and memorabilia, as well as fans of the Daimler-Benz brand.