Written by coream at 8/12/2008 09:22:00 PM The red curved torch, inspired by the shape of traditional Chinese scroll, is inscribed with swirling graphics designed to evoke the phoenix and clouds of promise

Ever since the 1936 Games in Berlin, this tradition has enlisted the finest designers around the world to represent the host country in torch form. The New York Times took a retrospective look at past torches and its evolution in forms.