ANTIQUE WOOD BUTCHER SHOP SIGN. HAND CARVED BAS RELIEF FIGURES & ANIMALS
Item History & Price
| Reference Number: Avaluer:38850 |
This item is a very old single one inch thick plank of wood measuring 12-5/8 inches x 19 inches in a rectangular shape. The geometric pattern bars are simplistic and all the figures are deep bas relief. It is most likely of European source and very old allowing that the characters and animals depict the selection and slaughter of an animal designed to attract customers who neither read nor write in a common language. The men are dressed in the garb of one from the mid...dle ages, or peasant dress of a later time, perhaps 18th century. The knife being held and used would be a bullhook which is a very old curved cutting tool used in harvesting and evidently in butchering animals as well. Two bent wires are imbeded in the top for hanging outside the establishment which was probably in a village or small town. This rare item was discovered in Denver Colorado which is known for its cattle stockyards and meat packing industry which would explain the subject matter, but not the description. NOTE: This information is my analysis, and though I am a long time art connoisseur, I am not an expert in mercantile signs. I will say that my research on the internet found nothing similar to the sign I am offering. Please do your own research, and if you find a better explanation that herewith provided please forward it to me. Thank you.
