Back when signage was the only form of outdoor advertising on a small scale — brands had to have their message down. Signage during this era were porcelain enamel and originated in Germany and became the staple form of signage between 1890 – 1950.
The term is descriptive around the style — vintage originals were produced with powdered glass and fired in a kiln making the sign weather-resistant.
After WWII the costs were prohibitive and manufacturing turned to a less expensive process — enamel paint on tin. For a stellar collection of these vintage marvels of outdoor advertising, check out smashingmagazine
The signage pictured above tell it like it is — love the rat and “A” connection.
Image: © Karl Heine 2010
