Stella Artois is a Belgian Pilsner/lager that's long been established as a household name in England. First introduced in 1926 examples of advertising for Stella Artois are relatively scarce in comparison to a lot of other well known beers from the period. 

 

This large (1.5m wide) Stella Artois Parking enamel sign is a real rarity and this example is near mint. The sign was produced by T.P. Bruxelles who produced enamel signs for a number of breweries around the mid-20th century. Their signs almost always hold a production number and date - in this instance the sign is dated 1974. As is common with continental signage, this piece has 'ears' / tabs for the mounting holes which themselves have small brass inserts / washers - these tabs allow the sign to be mounted without the risk of the fixings damaging the enamel on the main surface of the sign. It's certainly worked in this instance... There are a few very small surface chips and a small patch to the far right side of the red enamel layer where somethings been scrubbed at and a concentrated area of surface scratching has occured, but compared to the scale of the sign this really doesn't grab the eye. Although a relatively late piece, the sign is so bright and well preserved with such a perfect surface gloss that I wouldn't be surprised to learn that this piece has never been displayed. 

 

The sign can be easily hung using it's original mounting holes and displays wonderfully (the slight return giving it great rigidity, keeping it nice and flat). With it's vibrant colours and impressive scale, it's certainly a statement piece that would make for a fantastic piece of decor for any vintage themed bar, cafe or kitchen or would make for an excellent piece of 'man cave' decor. 

 

The sign measures 150cm wide x 48cm high x 2cm deep. 

 

S/N: #1071