October Fall Classic
Lot 1213c:
Description
Fascinating trio of embossed metal signs, clearly representing different aspects of early-to-mid 20th-century American commerce and transportation. Includes three distinct pieces. The first sign, marked “PENN TRUCK” with the company name “PAL-IT” and location “CHICAGO, ILLINOIS”, appears to be a smaller metal truck plate or identification tag, possibly for a fleet or a specific dealer application. It shows an industrial, utilitarian style with stenciled/embossed lettering on a silver background with faded yellow accents. The second sign boldly proclaiming “TONICA” over the text “C.R. & R.W. LONG, GEN’L MDSE” (General Merchandise), is a classic advertising sign, likely for a small-town general store or business. Its raised lettering and dark color palette, possibly originally black or dark brown over a cream/yellow field, places it stylistically in the early 1900s to 1920s. Finally, the large, distinctive die-cut winged sign is marked “KENTUCKY”, is particularly interesting. The manufacturer is identified on the bottom flange as “MANUFACTURING BY T.A.S. NOVELTY CO. LOUISVILLE, KY.” This piece, with its Art Deco-inspired “wings” and bold blue and silver/white paint, is strongly reminiscent of classic automobile trunk or dealership emblems, perhaps from the 1930s or 1940s. The lot is in fair to poor antique condition consistent with age and outdoor use; all three pieces exhibit heavy surface wear, rust, paint loss, scratches, and bending, particularly the Tonica and Kentucky signs, the latter of which has a large tear on the upper right wing edge. The Penn Truck sign has heavy paint loss and folds in the corners of the metal. Pal-It Dim.: H 4.25 x W 11.5″. Tonica Dim. H. 4.25” x W. 17.75. Kentucky Dim. H. 5.5” x W. 21”. See photos.
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