Jacob Rothberger – Sport- und Automobil-Bekleidung

Jacob Rothberger – Sport- und Automobil-Bekleidung [Sports and Automobile Clothing]. Vienna & London: Jacob Rothberger, K.u.K. Hof-Lieferant, [ca. 1908–1912]. 8vo. 47 pp. Original printed wrappers in black and red. Profusely illustrated throughout: motoring coats, chauffeur uniforms, leather garments, fur-lined automobile clothing, driving accessories, hats, goggles, protective headgear, dust coats, and ladies' motoring fashions. Includes measurement guide for custom tailoring and extensive price lists in Austrian crowns. Very good condition. Light wear and soiling to wrappers; interior clean and bright. Contemporary oval ownership stamp of the Prague Tailors' Association (Svaz dílovedoucích střihačů v Praze) on front wrapper.

Scarce illustrated trade catalogue issued by the celebrated Viennese tailor and Imperial-Royal Court Supplier Jacob Rothberger, whose establishment at Stephansplatz served the aristocracy and emerging motoring elite of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Produced during the pioneering years of automobilism, the catalogue documents the specialized garments developed for open-car travel before enclosed bodies became standard: fur "Eskimo" motor coats, leather chauffeur outfits, dust mantles, protective hoods, goggles, lap robes, and weatherproof accessories. The illustrations capture the distinctive appearance of early motorists and chauffeurs and provide a valuable visual record of pre-First World War automotive culture in Central Europe. Particularly notable are the dedicated sections for women's motoring attire and custom-made garments, reflecting the rapid social and technological changes associated with the automobile. VG condition.