Sign for Lewis's Inn
MakerMaker
Unknown
Dateabout 1805-1820
MediumPaint on pine board, posts and bottom rail are chestnut or ash (replaced), gold leaf, iron hardware
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (height x width of sign): 56 x 30in. (142.2 x 76.2cm)
ClassificationsPainting
Credit LineCollection of Morgan B. Brainard. Gift of Mrs. Morgan B. Brainard
Object number1961.63.33
DescriptionImages: On both sides, the United States seal. No underlying imagery.
Construction: Single board, suspended from top rail; square stiles and bottom rail (replaced). Board is cut into an oval shape with scalloped edge; oriented vertically. Rails are tenoned through stiles and pinned. Top rail, or header, has applied moldings, mitered in the corners, nailed to each face. Pediment is applied to the top edge of the header.
Surface: Edges of the oval show evidence of gilding. The eagle is raised above the surface of the background, possibly by relief carving. The use of a sans serif alphabet suggests a later date for the lettering in "C.B.LEWIS".
Construction: Single board, suspended from top rail; square stiles and bottom rail (replaced). Board is cut into an oval shape with scalloped edge; oriented vertically. Rails are tenoned through stiles and pinned. Top rail, or header, has applied moldings, mitered in the corners, nailed to each face. Pediment is applied to the top edge of the header.
Surface: Edges of the oval show evidence of gilding. The eagle is raised above the surface of the background, possibly by relief carving. The use of a sans serif alphabet suggests a later date for the lettering in "C.B.LEWIS".
Collections
Label TextThis sign’s swinging oval signboard, upper rail, and pediment are original, as is the painted eagle. The bottom rail, however, is a later replacement, as are the posts on the side, which appear to be recycled wheel barrow handles.
Status
On view1772-1786
1820-1838