What were antique trade signs used for?

These pieces served as exterior or interior markers for specific commercial premises, identifying the profession or wares of the occupant. They directed customers along busy streets before standardised corporate signage existed. Over time, many transitioned from active commerce into decorative items, appreciated for their direct visual language and honest craftsmanship.

How do I hang a heavy wooden sign?

Heavy wooden panels and carved figures require secure anchoring directly into wall studs or masonry using appropriate weight-bearing fixings. Professional assessment of the wall structure is essential given the substantial mass of old timber and iron brackets. Ensure the hanging method distributes the weight evenly across the structure of the sign without straining historical joints or fragile painted edges.

How can I tell the period of a sign?

Dating relies on analysing the typeface, construction methods, wood types, and the composition of the paint layers. Victorian and Edwardian examples often feature distinct lettering styles and manufacturing techniques compared to 18th-century or interwar pieces. Wear patterns and underlying preparation layers also provide clues to the age and operational history of the object.

Are trade figures and signs cleaned or restored?

Most collectors prefer to leave original paint, weathered timber, and stable patina untouched to preserve the historical integrity of the piece. Cleaning is generally restricted to gentle dusting rather than chemical stripping or repainting. Intervention should only stabilise active deterioration without erasing the marks of its working life.