Imagine an enamel sign capturing an iconic moment in the history of the renowned British company, His Master’s Voice (HMV). The story behind the company’s logo is not only fascinating but also deeply touching.
In 1898, English painter Francis Barraud created an artwork featuring a terrier named Nipper, sitting beside an Edison phonograph, listening to the voice of his late master. Barraud titled the piece “His Master’s Voice” and initially offered it to the Edison company, which declined his proposal. Eventually, the painting was purchased by the Gramophone Company, which replaced the phonograph in the image with a modern gramophone, transforming the artwork into their iconic logo.
Over time, Nipper became a symbol for RCA Victor and other companies as well. Today, this little terrier stands as one of the most recognizable emblems of the music industry worldwide. A timeless tribute to sound, memory, and innovation.