British Petroleum (B.P.) is a name that is synonymous with early automotive history. They were a supplier of petrol, or as it was more endearingly termed at the time, 'Motor Spirit' and despite the implications of the name - B.P. was actually a marketing arm of the German 'Europäische Petroleum Union' in Britain.

Here we have the most iconic of BP's enamel signage designs - the vibrant, bold Union Jack... This design was introduced in the early 1920s and was produced by a number of different enamelers in a variety of formats - from the double-sided, flange sign we have here through to a whopping 6ft wide single-sided example. This design is popular the world over and a key piece in any collection of automobilia or a bold piece of vintage / antique decoration in it's own right. 

 

When buying an iconic piece like this, condition is key because you don't want a substandard example in your collection... This piece remains in good, original condition. It was produced by Franco Signs, London W1 (in the days when companys could afford factory space in London's West End!) - it has a date code which I can't interpret but it's very likely to be early 1920s. It's survived the decades well with vibrant colours and a good gloss. There are a patches of enamel loss across the face and a few areas where there’s a little corrosion behind the enamel starting to bleed through (flange side of the outer face) but generally it’s very good. There is a slight bending to upper part of the flange which would have to be considered when hanging, but can either be pulled in with a screw and washer or the bottom part of the flange could be packed out with some washers to it displays flat. Generally though this is a very good example of an uncommon sign that has great impact. 

 

The piece measures 61cm wide x 41cm high and the flange measures 5cm deep. 

 

S/N: #1501