Celebrating 50 years of our distinctive brand logo
## A Timeless Symbol of Progress and Trust: The Origins of Deutsche Bank's Iconic Logo
In April 1974, Deutsche Bank unveiled a new symbol that would become synonymous with its global identity—the iconic "slash in a square" logo. This minimalist masterpiece, featuring a single 53-degree diagonal slash within a blue square, was the culmination of an international design competition held in 1972 and won by the renowned German graphic designer, **Anton Stankowski**[1][2][4].
Before 1974, Deutsche Bank's visual identity was marked by eagle symbols and letter marks. However, as the bank began to expand its international presence, it recognized the need to evolve its public presentation[3]. This led to the commissioning of a competition to create a global logo, regardless of type and language.
Stankowski's design was chosen for its clear geometric simplicity and conceptual depth. The square represents stability, security, and trust—the cornerstones of banking, while the slash symbolizes dynamic growth and progress[4]. Together, these elements encapsulate the bank's mission: to provide a secure foundation for clients while supporting their growth and financial progress.
The logo's minimalist aesthetic, with its single geometric shape and line, stands out for its dynamic yet balanced appearance. The slash is tilted at a precise 53-degree angle, contributing to the logo's overall dynamism. The choice of blue, a colour traditionally associated with trust and professionalism in banking, further reinforces the brand's values[1].
Since its introduction, the "slash in a square" has left an indelible mark on the financial industry. It was groundbreaking in its departure from traditional, wordmark-heavy bank logos, setting a new standard in financial branding. Its abstract, symbolic approach proved that a simple, conceptual mark could be both memorable and meaningful[4]. The logo's adaptability and timelessness have allowed it to remain effective across decades and contexts.
Anton Stankowski, the pioneer of graphic design and master of constructivism, passed away in 1998, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence the world of corporate identity design. His "slash in a square" logo remains in use today, a testament to his vision and the enduring power of effective design.
- The slash in the square logo was initially interpreted as a symbol of dynamic growth in a secure environment. - The logo was designed by Anton Stankowski, a pioneer of graphic design and master of constructivism. - The slash in the square logo became a globally unmistakable trademark of Deutsche Bank. - "Slash in a square" was the winning design out of 140 entries in a competition to create a new logo for the company.
The slash in the square logo, designed by Anton Stankowski, a pioneer of graphic design and master of constructivism, was initially interpreted as a symbol of dynamic growth in a secure environment. This global logo, offered by Deutsche Bank since 1974, stands out as a trademark, leaving an indelible impact on the financial industry, and demonstrating the power of effective, timeless design.
