The Evolution Of The Michelin Man

Over the years the Michelin Man (aka Bibendum) has evolved from the sinister "Road Drunkard" figure first painted by the poster artist O’Galop in 1898, to the sleeker more jovial character of today. 

O’Galop’s first poster from April 1898 featuring the Bibendum character.
The ‘toast’ translates as ‘Now it is time to drink…that is to say: your good health.
The Michelin tyre drinks up obstacles!’ The idea was that Michelin tyres ‘drank’ up
any obstructions in their way – Bibendum’s raised glass is full of broken debris.

I’m Clinging in the Rain, 1975 is one of two posters from the 1970s that show
the transition to the jolly incarnation of Bibendum that is more recognized today. 

Link to slideshow

Via Frogsmoke