Vibrant Painted Trade Sign
for Umbrellas & Rainwear       

American, ca. last qtr 19th century. Original paint with soft over-varnish on wood, the molding joined by large cut nails. Unusually bold and graphic, the large red-and-blue umbrella dominates the composition—visually reinforcing the nature of the goods for sale while creating an exciting visual to capture the attention of passersby. Hand-lettered in of serif and italic styles, the text is laid out with careful attention to spacing and color balance. Raindrops scattered around the umbrella provide a whimsical, dynamic touch.

This sign is both functional and decorative, typical of the transitional period between folk tradition and early commercial branding. Before mass-produced printed signage became widely affordable, such hand-painted boards served as a direct, personable interface between merchant and customer. Its cheerful design and painterly quality would have stood out on a bustling street, as it would in your home.

Beautifully preserved with a pleasing warm patina and minor abrasions. About 30 inches tall x 22 wide x 1 5/8 deep. Hangs easily. From a long time Southern collection.