Michelin and their Bibendum character are iconic in the automotive world and during the mid-20th century they adopted this shield shape into their enamel advertising and used this blue background to advertise their car tyres, a yellow for tractor tyres and a red we see here for bicycle tyres. 

 

Most of Michelin's advertising signage was either enamel or in the later years, tin but here we have an understandably rare glass example. A lithographically reverse printed pane of glass with a holes in the upper corners that allows the sign to be suspended from a chain it's as vibrant as it is fragile. Advertising for Michelin's bicycle tyres is fairly uncommon at the best of times as car tyres were the company's primary focus but this example still features the iconic Bibendum character here seen riding a classically styled bicycle.

 

The sign was produced c.1960 and has survived almost perfectly, there's a small chip along the upper edge (pictured), slight chipping around the hanging holes (inevitable) and a small scuff to the printing on the reverse that can be seen faintly above the 'E' but generally this would have to be considered as good as they come (the alternative state generally resembles more of a jigsaw). 

 

The sign measures 41cm high x 33cm wide. For obvious reasons this piece isn't really suited to posting, delivery can still be arranged but the costs will be dependant on location. 

 

S/N: #1413