From the 1880s until the 1950s most exterior advertising signage was made of porcelain as it was durable and could withstand any weather conditions. This type of signage originated in Germany and when manufacturers in the United States began producing it, they had to import craftsmen from Germany. Collectors today who spend large amounts of money for vintage porcelain signs in good condition.
This form of advertising was used by numerous businesses, from stove and food companies to paint stores to promote their wares. Everything from beer and soft drinks like Coca cola to detergents and gasoline were all advertised in this manner. The name of the company and the logo as well as catch phrases were displayed and this information was seen by many potential customers on a daily basis as they passed by. Signage was not only affixed to walls but double sided items were hung from brackets too.
These items were made from powdered glass fused onto iron. The rolled iron was die-cut and a base color was fired onto this. Graphics and text were stenciled onto the base and each color required was individually fired on to the surface in layers. This was a costly and labor intensive process.
When silkscreening was introduced instead of stenciling, it provided a way of keeping costs lower and increasing production. It was not long before intense competition arose between manufacturers. They were all seeking to produce the boldest colors and most memorable graphics.
Not much of this signage has survived, thanks to the fact that it was discarded and vandalized. The main factor contributing to its destruction was World War II when the iron was melted down for the war effort. In the post war years, it was just too expensive to manufacture. Companies began to use other metals like steel and tin. Later plastic began to be used extensively and internally lit plastic items replaced most previous signage.
Some manufacturers are producing this type of signage today but in very limited quantities. Demand has led to many reproductions being made and for those who simply want them for decorative purposes, these items are perfectly acceptable. However, collectors need to be aware that reproductions are also being passed off as genuine antiques, making it essential for them to have some knowledge about what they are collecting.
Many collectors focus on the signage used for the automotive industry, with gasoline signage being most popular. Other collectors prefer to focus on the signage that was used in country stores. It was used to sell just about every product one can think of, from cigars and beers to bread and butter.
The condition of a sign is important for a collector and those in mint condition fetch high prices. Items being sold usually list information about the condition. Some have minor damage to the finish such as scratches or some rust and if the images are still good, they are still sought after.
Vintage porcelain signs are sought after by collectors. They can be very valuable and offer a taste of history. They are a beautiful form of artistic expression from an age that no longer exists and deserve to be preserved.
This form of advertising was used by numerous businesses, from stove and food companies to paint stores to promote their wares. Everything from beer and soft drinks like Coca cola to detergents and gasoline were all advertised in this manner. The name of the company and the logo as well as catch phrases were displayed and this information was seen by many potential customers on a daily basis as they passed by. Signage was not only affixed to walls but double sided items were hung from brackets too.
These items were made from powdered glass fused onto iron. The rolled iron was die-cut and a base color was fired onto this. Graphics and text were stenciled onto the base and each color required was individually fired on to the surface in layers. This was a costly and labor intensive process.
When silkscreening was introduced instead of stenciling, it provided a way of keeping costs lower and increasing production. It was not long before intense competition arose between manufacturers. They were all seeking to produce the boldest colors and most memorable graphics.
Not much of this signage has survived, thanks to the fact that it was discarded and vandalized. The main factor contributing to its destruction was World War II when the iron was melted down for the war effort. In the post war years, it was just too expensive to manufacture. Companies began to use other metals like steel and tin. Later plastic began to be used extensively and internally lit plastic items replaced most previous signage.
Some manufacturers are producing this type of signage today but in very limited quantities. Demand has led to many reproductions being made and for those who simply want them for decorative purposes, these items are perfectly acceptable. However, collectors need to be aware that reproductions are also being passed off as genuine antiques, making it essential for them to have some knowledge about what they are collecting.
Many collectors focus on the signage used for the automotive industry, with gasoline signage being most popular. Other collectors prefer to focus on the signage that was used in country stores. It was used to sell just about every product one can think of, from cigars and beers to bread and butter.
The condition of a sign is important for a collector and those in mint condition fetch high prices. Items being sold usually list information about the condition. Some have minor damage to the finish such as scratches or some rust and if the images are still good, they are still sought after.
Vintage porcelain signs are sought after by collectors. They can be very valuable and offer a taste of history. They are a beautiful form of artistic expression from an age that no longer exists and deserve to be preserved.
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