1919 Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Art, Vintage Motorcycle Patent Wall Art, Adam Ziska D54346 – Printed 11x14

The story behind the art

In 1919, a Milwaukee inventor named Adam Ziska Jr. filed a patent application for something a little different.

He wasn't patenting an engine or transmission. His application was simply titled “Design for a Motorcycle,” protecting the ornamental appearance of the motorcycle itself.

But Ziska's connection to Harley-Davidson went deeper than this single design.

Only about five weeks later, Adam Ziska Jr. and William S. Harley jointly filed another motorcycle patent, this time involving motorcycle frame construction. Their work together provides a fascinating glimpse at one of the lesser-known inventors working alongside one of the most famous names in motorcycle history.

Ziska's motorcycle design was granted U.S. Design Patent D54,346 on December 23, 1919, and assigned to the Harley-Davidson Motor Company.

More than a century later, the patent drawing captures a moment in early American motorcycle design—the V-twin engine, long fuel tank, sprung saddle, headlamp, spoked wheels and rear carrier.

We've transformed that historic patent document into vintage motorcycle wall art, presented on our signature aged-paper background while preserving the character of the original patent.

Perfect for a motorcycle enthusiast, Harley fan, collector, garage, workshop, office or man cave—and especially for someone who appreciates the history behind the machines.

Print details: Physical 11×14-inch print; aged-paper design; frame not included; created by New England Patent Prints.

And that's what the Patent Vault is all about—finding the stories behind the inventions.