J. Lyons & Co. were best known for their chain of tea shops which opened from 1894 and finally closed in 1981, and for the Lyons Corner Houses in the West End of London. From the 1930s Lyons began to develop a pioneering range of teas, coffees, cocoas, biscuits and cakes that were sold in grocery stores across the world.

 

Here we have a large (1m wide), vibrant example of a Lyons' Cakes enamel sign. The bold, blue lettering contrasts nicely against the yellow background and the piece is framed with a very graphic, somewhat art deco design. 

 

The sign probably dates from the 1940s. It's surface gloss has mottled (see the third photo along) which has caused some discolouration too, but it does remain vibrant and still has a reasonable sheen. There are patches of enamel loss scattered across the sign, though it remains legible. The upper middle and right mounting holes have broken through but it can be hung securely using the surviving holes. 

 

Measuring in at 99cm wide x 75cm high it makes for a fantastic wall filler and is a real statement piece in any vintage themed kitchen / cafe etc. 

 

S/N: #0130