In
1993, while still working in Zurich, Switzerland, we were awarded the commission
for the Swiss National Bank, through Joerg Zintzmeyer & Lux, to contribute
a picture for the new 20 Franc Swiss banknote. The note is in homage to Arthur
Honegger (1892-1955), one of the best Swiss composers of our century, who
is portrayed on one side of the bill. The other side is in honor of his opera
"Pacific 231". For this assignment we traveled to Rouen in France and photographed
the legendary locomotive “Pacific 231”. We are proud that our picture has
been chosen and is reflected on the 20 Franc Swiss Banknote.
"Pacific
231", A Locomotive In Music Honegger's symphony "Pacific 231" was written
to honor this marvel of engineering. The wheel symbolizes rhythm, power and
motion, while the compressor is a symbol of technology subduing power. Both
these elements refer to the core themes of this composition: acceleration
and deceleration.
