An appealing early American veterinary trade sign reading “NEWARK SMALL ANIMAL HOSPITAL,” dating to approximately 1920. Hand-painted gold lettering stands prominently against a black schmaltz sand-painted ground, surrounded by its narrow black-painted wooden frame.
The richly textured surface and straightforward hand-lettered typography give the sign a strong early commercial-folk-art presence. Two period screw-eye hangers remain along the upper edge. The precise Newark location and original veterinary practice have not been identified.
Painted and sand-finished wood. American, circa 1920.
Condition
Very good overall condition, retaining strong color, texture, and legibility. Attractive wear consistent with age and use, including scattered rubbing and paint loss along the frame and a localized area of surface loss at the lower right.
Dimensions
Approx. 24 3/4 x 7 3/4 x 1 1/2 inches.