As spring weather continues, it is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors and go on a bike ride.

The bicycle was originally invented in 1817 by Baron Karl von Drais of Germany. Known as the “running machine,” it was slow to grow in popularity due to many flaws. First, the bicycles were difficult to use due to the lack of pedals. They were also too bumpy to be ridden and called “Boneshakers”. The front wheel was later sized up to make the ride smoother. As new inventions and features to the bicycle were added, they became a more popular sight both on the street and in art.  

Bicycles are represented in a plethora of styles, including futurism and avant-garde movements, realism, contemporary, sculptural art, and more. It also came in the form of advertisements, in the case of La Chaíne Simpson, a colorful lithograph by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. This image promoted the Simpson brand, which sold bicycle chains. While this is not the only example of how bikes were represented, it certainly is a successful depiction of them.

Not ready to take your bike out on the streets yet? Then explore the Grand Valley Art Museum's extensive collection of bicycle-themed art instead!