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. When most people think about early BP Motor Spirit enamel advertising, they'll probably picture the iconic Union Jack signs or the slightly more unusual 'Irish Flash' pieces... But this example pre-dates both of those and is a real rarity. The above sign is likely to date to the late teens - very early twenties and was produced by the Bruton enamelers of Palmers Green, North London. This earlier design of signage can be found in this red and white colour way or in a blue and white one. 

 

For such an early piece, this sign has survived in remarkably good condition. It retains a decent gloss, though these is some light surface scratching that has dulled it in areas (see the angled photos for a better representation of this). The colours remain even, with minimal fading or staining. There are patches of loss around the outer edges and across the face of the sign, though nothing that affects the impact or legibility of the piece. It can be hung using it's original mounting holes and would  benefit from being fixed directly to a wall as the hooks and chains used for the photographs allow the sign to bend slightly giving it a slightly odd shape. Once fixed properly it will sit flat and display well. 

 

The sign measures 1.38m wide x 46cm high. 

 

S/N: #0521