Esso are one of the most iconic fuel companies in the world. Generally known for their petrol, here we see an advertisement for their sweetly named 'White Rose' paraffin. 

 

This double-sided flange sign is lithographically printed on aluminium and in my opinion it's aged beautifully with a fine surface craquelure / crazing and a gentle yellowing that gives it a wonderful vintage aesthetic and the sort of character that just can't be replicated. These flanged signs were designed to stick out from the shop / garage wall at 90 degrees so it could be visible to people approaching in either direction. On the inside of the flange, it's stamped - 'Property of the A.A.O. Co. Ltd.' - this is the Anglo-American Oil Company which was the parent company of Esso. From what I can find out the Anglo-American Oil Co. changed its name to Esso Petroleum Co Ltd in 1951 and if that's the case, that would make this sign late '40s. Generally these 'tin' (/aluminium) signs are later than that and I'd generally suggest it dated to the 1960s so perhaps some divisions of Esso continued trading under the A.A.O. Co or perhaps they were early adopters of non-enamel advertising... 

 

Regardless, this piece is at least 50 years old and it's survived the decades well, especially considering the increased vulnerability of these pieces over their enamel counter parts. There's the ageing already mentioned along with some surface rubbing / scratches but generally it's a very presentable piece with a lovely vintage look and feel. It can be hung with ease and displayed as intended using it's flange.

 

The sign measures 56cm wide x 46cm high and the flange is 5.5cm deep. 

 

S/N: #1434