Archive review: This retrospective assessment uses surviving Hirst & Hirst records and contemporary press material. It is not a claim that the product is currently stocked or newly tested.
What was it?
A black London taxi and red double-decker bus were reduced to bold metal profiles, each mounted on a base that slips under the books. Bella featured the pair in July 2012 and recorded a price of £18 each.
Design and usefulness
The two different vehicle heights create a pleasing asymmetry while the red-and-black palette is instantly readable as London. Unlike souvenir ornaments, they have a clear practical purpose.
What worked
- Excellent balance of function and humour
- Documented designer and price
- Strong British gift appeal
- Works as a mismatched pair
Points to consider
- Thin profiles can be bent
- Powder coating may chip at corners
- Press clipping is the clearest surviving image
Buying or collecting one today
Confirm that both bases sit flat, the bus windows remain crisp and neither silhouette leans under pressure.
Hirst & Hirst verdict
One of the strongest Hirst & Hirst archive products: useful, witty and visually economical.
Primary archive source: view the surviving Hirst & Hirst record.
Archive & sourcing note
Retrospective archive review. Hirst & Hirst no longer sells this product and has not retested a current example.
View the surviving Hirst & Hirst archive source (opens original archive).