What was the historical purpose of an optician trade sign?

Trade signs served as visual markers outside commercial premises to identify the merchants business to the public during eras when literacy rates varied.

What materials were traditionally used to construct early 20th-century trade signs?

These signs were typically manufactured using wrought iron, sheet steel, leaded glass, stained glass, or cast metals designed to withstand exterior weather conditions.

How can one identify authentic early 20th-century commercial signage?

Authentic pieces exhibit natural surface oxidisation, hand-soldered glass joints, minor inconsistencies in glass thickness, and historic mounting hardware.

How can an antique trade sign be integrated into modern interior design?

An antique trade sign can be mounted on a narrow wall, positioned within a gallery wall arrangement, or displayed on open shelving to serve as a graphic focal point.

How should a stained glass and metal trade sign be maintained?

Dust gently with a dry microfibre cloth, avoid liquid cleaners on ironwork to prevent corrosion, and keep stained glass lead lines free from moisture.

for sale €2,211 $2,400

£1,890

The House of Antiques

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Early 20th Century Trade Sign

Name: Early 20th Century Trade Sign
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1002067
Price: 1890 GBP
Availability: InStock

1900 - 1920

For Sale by The House of Antiques

Description

Early 20th century Opticians Trade sign

A larger than normal example of an early 20th century cast metal and glass opticians trade sign, in the form of a quirky pair of spectacles. Made from hand forged cast metal and mottled red and blue glass lenses. A highly decorative double-sided example that would have hung outside an optician’s store for many years. Recently uncovered from a private collection in Belgium earlier this month on our travels. This item has two hanging hooks still in place for its to be displayed/hung.

Origin: EU

Material: Cast metal and glass

Age: 1910 - 1920

Size: Height 24” x Width 29” x Depth 1.5”

Condition Report

A naturally aged item, that has stood the test of time considering being outside for most of its life. As a result its rusted metal sections and flaked paint are visible. This item could well have originally been painted gold as some painted area is still visible, most of the painted surface has worn away.

Its exceedingly difficult to photograph all the areas of these pieces, therefore we strongly suggest reviewing all the photos provided as part of this advert and propose questions where sections are unclear to avoid disappointment upon purchase.

For multiple years we have sold antique and vintage items globally, please expect our items to show relevant age and natural wear, Items are only restored due to breaks and loss, and we always stipulate this in our condition report.

Physical Dimensions

Height

61cm (24.02")

Width

73.7cm (29.02")

Depth

3.8cm (1.50")

Declaration

The House of Antiques has dated this Optician Spectacles Trade Sign to the 1910s.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Reference

SA1002067

Dealers Internal Reference

Early 20th century Opticians Trade sign

Description

Early 20th century Opticians Trade sign

“

A larger than normal example of an early 20th century cast metal and glass opticians trade sign, in the form of a quirky pair of spectacles.

The House of Antiques

Made from hand forged cast metal and mottled red and blue glass lenses. A highly decorative double-sided example that would have hung outside an optician’s store for many years. Recently uncovered from a private collection in Belgium earlier this month on our travels. This item has two hanging hooks still in place for its to be displayed/hung.

fig 1. An early 20th-century metal optician trade sign in the shape of spectacle frames holding circular red and blue stained glass lenses. — fig 1. Early 20th Century Trade Sign

Origin: EU

Material: Cast metal and glass

Age: 1910 - 1920

Size: Height 24” x Width 29” x Depth 1.5”

Condition Report

A naturally aged item, that has stood the test of time considering being outside for most of its life. As a result its rusted metal sections and flaked paint are visible. This item could well have originally been painted gold as some painted area is still visible, most of the painted surface has worn away.

fig 2. An early 20th-century metal optician trade sign in the shape of spectacle frames holding circular red and blue stained glass lenses. — fig 2. Early 20th Century Trade Sign

Its exceedingly difficult to photograph all the areas of these pieces, therefore we strongly suggest reviewing all the photos provided as part of this advert and propose questions where sections are unclear to avoid disappointment upon purchase.

fig 3. An early 20th-century metal optician trade sign in the shape of spectacle frames holding circular red and blue stained glass lenses. — fig 3. Early 20th Century Trade Sign

For multiple years we have sold antique and vintage items globally, please expect our items to show relevant age and natural wear, Items are only restored due to breaks and loss, and we always stipulate this in our condition report.