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 found here in the most wonderfully weathered condition...  This design was introduced in 1922 and was produced by a number of different enamelers in a variety of formats - from the double-sided, flange sign that this example would have started off life as, 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. 

 

This particular sign was produced by the Falkirk Iron Co Ltd. It would have originally been a double-sided flanged sign, designed to stick out from the wall of a shop / garage at 90 degrees so that it was visible in both direction however with this example the flange has corroded away or been cut off meaning that to display it, it would either have to sit on a shelf (or similar) or be secured with fixings above and below... I have seen these double-siders displayed very effectively leant against a window. If you're looking for a top quality collector's piece - this definitely isn't it, but if you appreciate the sort of rich patina that just can't be replicated except through decades of wear and tear then I challenge you to find better. For me, the joy of this example is that both sides remain fully legible, the colours have muted but remain strong and in this instance I think that the piece's condition add's to, rather than detracting from the piece. 

 

The sign measures 61.5cm wide x 40.5cm high

 

S/N: #0520