But what is it that grabs your attention and makes you really LOOK at a sign? It could be the shape, it could be the colors, but a BIG factor is the design, emblem, or logo a sign carries.
Retail and promotional signs were the earliest forms of signs. These date back to antiquity. They would carry designs that could be recognized by non-literate citizens.
We all know that the red and white striped pole means we can get a shave and a haircut – a variation of that sign dates back to the Middle Ages. In the 14 th century, English law mandated that innkeepers and tavern keepers display signs so inspectors could easily identify shops selling ale, ale being the usual replacement for that era’s not-always- healthy water. Failure to do so could lead to prosecution or the forfeiture of an establishment’s ale.
As early as the 16 th century, attempts were made to number houses and by the end of the 18 th century numbering was nearly universal and soon became enforced.
We’ve come a long way, baby, and now our personal house signs can be an expression of our “inner selves”, our favorite pastimes,
our beloved pets – something that shows the world a little part of what we are at a glance. If you love the sea you might add a nautical emblem to your sign. Love your cat? How about a stylized cat or cat paws? Do you play the guitar or golf?
Add a guitar or golf clubs. The ideas are endless and the only limit is your imagination.
The Carving Company has an outstanding array of designs and is happy to replicate any that our customers design themselves. There is no limit to the ideas our ingenious customers have come up with for their signs.
Look around you as you travel around and take in all the “expressions of
the individual” that signs show you. We know you’ll either find something on our site that suits you to a “T” or you’ll be able to let your own creativity soar!