H: 118cm (46.46in)
W: 78.5cm (30.91in)
D: 0.5cm (0.20in)
Period: 1960s

Renault were amongst the pioneers of the early automotive industry; founded in 1899 by three French brothers they still represent the ninth biggest automaker in the world. Following accusations of German collaboration during WW2 the company was nationalised by the French government in 1945. The company went on to enjoy a post-war resurgence and commercial success through the mid-20th century. 

The logo design depicted in this, double-sided enamel sign was introduced in 1959 and was changed again in 1972; as the use of enamel for advertising was wide phased out through the 1960s in favour of cheaper mediums we can assume this sign was produced fairly soon after the introduction of the new logo. This sign is of particularly excellent quality; as well as the diamond shaping, there is a recessed outer edge running around the sign which adds a three-dimension aspect to the piece and aids rigidity. The enamel layer is wonderfully thick and retains a bright yellow colour and good gloss... 

Both sides remain in very good condition; there is some corrosion around the bottom corner and a few small areas of enamel loss around the outer edge and the mounting holes, but this is definitely an example of wear adding to a piece rather than detracting from it.