The Rolling Stones Tongue And Lips Logo Acquired By The V&A

By Dan James

01/09/2008

The original artwork of the Rolling Stones Tongue and Lips logo has recently been bought by the V&A at auction in the United States for $92,500 (£47,500).

The famous pop art design was commissioned by Mick Jagger in 1970 after the Stones had become frustrated by the bland designs offered by their record label, Decca Records.

Victoria Broakes, Head of Exhibitions at the V&A Theatre and Performance Collections, said: "The Rolling Stones 'Tongue' is one of the first examples of a group using branding and it has become arguably the world's most famous rock logo."

“We are delighted to have acquired the original artwork, especially as it was designed at the Royal College of Art right here in South Kensington by a student who used to visit the V&A's collections for inspiration."

Designed by John Pasche, the artwork encapsulated Mick Jagger’s sensuous lips and has been in continuous use as a logo by the Rolling Stones ever since. Pasche was paid just £50 for the logo in 1970 and a further £200 in 1972. He later went on to work with Paul McCartney, The Who and Dr Feelgood.

The Art Fund, an independent UK art charity which aims to enable institutions to aquire works of art, gave 50% towards the total cost of the purchase.

David Barrie, Director of The Art Fund, said: “This iconic logo, first used on the Stones’ Sticky Fingers album, is one of the most visually dynamic and innovative logos ever created. It’s wonderful that it has now found a permanent home in London, where the band was originally formed.”