M. Bibendum 1905 tee shirt

100% cotton tees made by Bayside in the USA and discharge printed by Triple Stamp Press in Richmond, Virginia.

Monsieur Bibendum, also know as the Michelin Man, has been interpreted by artists throughout Michelin's advertising history in depictions that range from the grotesque to the refined. When introduced in 1898 he was a terrifying anthropomorphic pile of tires, hoisting a chalice full of glass and nails over the heads of his deflated enemies. He later appeared as a human male, wrapped in tires. A gladiator, standing over his bloodied opponent. A hollow entity who offered his innards to stranded motorists. In the 1910s he was shown handily dispatching a trio of knife-wielding attackers while clad in a top hat and holding a smart walking cane. Adding to the atmosphere, this scene included a smiling Parisian moon hanging over the rooftops. By the middle of the 20th century Mr. Bib had become the cartoonish fluffy white mascot most of us bring to mind today.

Along the way he appeared in a delightful portrayal: a dapper cyclist with leather shoes, cufflinks, a pinky ring and a fine cigar. The design here is lifted from my favorite Michelin ad which dates back to 1905.

These tees are 100% cotton and printed on Bayside 5040 blanks. Midweight at 5.4oz and Made in the USA. Sizing available from S to XXXL. Please see photos for a size chart. Sizing listed is for a raw, fresh tee, unwashed and undried.