The stunningly illustrated book The Italians takes readers on a journey through the history of Italian car design, showcasing some of the most iconic and beloved models from the 1920s to the early 2000s. Delving deeply into the craftsmanship and artistry of vintage cars, it explores how Italian car design has been at the center of technology, culture and creativity – and how Italian designers such as Pininfarina, Zagato, Bertone, Giugiaro, Gandini and Ghia have influenced international design and car brands.

With stunning archival and contemporary images, The Italians – Beautiful Machines, by Gestalten, reveals the fascinating stories behind some of the most famous cars from Italy and what makes them so desirable. The book uses Italian car design to map the evolution of the culture over the past 100 years and its lasting influence on design and culture.

Photos courtesy of Gestalten