Object Timeline

1965

  • Work on this object began.

1972

  • We acquired this object.

1975

  • Work on this object ended.

2023

2025

  • You found it!

Questionnaire, Our Search for Symbols

This is a Questionnaire. It was designed by Henry Dreyfuss. It is dated ca. 1970 and we acquired it in 1972. Its medium is print on paper. It is a part of the department.


The "Our Search for Symbols" questionnaire presented the challenge of selecting the best symbol for Push and Pull. The text explained that "sometimes the simplest phrases are the hardest to symbolize!" Symbol users of all ages and backgrounds sent in suggestions with arrows, hands, curious shapes, and even a lawnmower to symbolize the motions!

This object was donated by Henry Dreyfuss. It is credited Gift of Henry Dreyfuss.

Its dimensions are

L x W: 27.9 × 21.6 cm (11 in. × 8 1/2 in.)

Cite this object as

Questionnaire, Our Search for Symbols; Designed by Henry Dreyfuss Associates (United States); print on paper; L x W: 27.9 × 21.6 cm (11 in. × 8 1/2 in.); Gift of Henry Dreyfuss; 1972-88-1-40

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If you would like to cite this object in a Wikipedia article please use the following template:

<ref name=CH>{{cite web |url=https://www-4.collection.cooperhewitt.org/objects/2318807831/ |title=Questionnaire, Our Search for Symbols |author=Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum |accessdate=14 February 2025 |publisher=Smithsonian Institution}}</ref>