Shōwa-period Standing Wooden Shop Sign, Japan
A standing wooden sign from a Shōwa-period Japanese chemical-fertilizer dealer. In the mid-Shōwa period Japanese agriculture modernized rapidly, and promotional items for kasei hiryō (compound fertilizer) were widely seen. On this sign the characters are carved in intaglio and then filled with gold lacquer, the lettering heavy and showing the feel of hand-cut knife work, together with a vermilion emblem at the top and the words “exclusive dealer / licensed”, reflecting the importance placed on brands and patents at the time. Hanging holes, wear from use, knocks at the edges and corners, some fading and the patina of age are visible — traces of a genuine working sign removed from a home or business. It is complete overall with clear lettering, carrying a strong period feel of Shōwa commercial design and local character.
