Sign for P. Roberts Inn
MakerMade by
Unknown
Date1798
MediumPine, possibly oak, iron, paint
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (height x width x depth including hardware): 44 1/8 x 27 3/4 x 2 1/4in. (112.1 x 70.5 x 5.7cm)
ClassificationsPainting
Credit LineThe Newman S. Hungerford Museum Fund
Object number2000.137.0
DescriptionTavern sign, with vertical panel with post and rail frame. Panel has a high vertical pediment, and a bifurcated bottom bearing the date "1798". Posts are squared, set diagonally to the panel, and have beveled edges on the ends. The top rail is similarly shaped and oriented to the pane, but appears to be a replacement. The bottom rail is flat sided, oriented at right angles to the panel, and has beveled corners. The panel is lettered the same on both sides, using black paint. The lettering is oriented to allow for an image above, but only faint suggestions of imagery remain. Both sides show evidence of exposure to fire, especially Side 2: the top rail does not show fire damage. The iron hardware is of twisted design, flatter at the bottom reaches, then becoming full profiled and ending in an open loop. The crispness of the edges and awkward attachment to the panel suggest the hardware is not original.
Collections
Label TextUnlike other tavern signs in this collection, this one appears to have never had an image, although there is space for one. On the other hand, it has a complex shape, created by skilled woodworking. The black lettering is the same on both sides, and both sides show signs of fire damage.
Status
On view
