A comprehensive introduction not only to the world's most important product designers, from the 17th century to the present, but also a look at the various design theories, styles and movements of the period. It will particularly concentrate on the ideas and contributions of 50 of the world's most influential designers such as Philippe Starck and Le Corbusier, and on 10 of the major movements in this field and their place in history. All in all, this is a compact, easily accessible, quick guide to the subject.