Design for an inn sign

ca. 1750 · Drawing · 35.5 × 25.5 cm

May one see it?

Not on view at present

Where is “Design for an inn sign” now? Collection: Victoria and Albert Museum, London. Not on view at present. Checked September 25, 2026.

Victoria and Albert Museum

London, United Kingdom

It belongs to the collection, but is not on display at present.

Checked: 14 days ago
In this state since: Sep 25, 2026
Source: The museum

On the map Museum page

About the work

Today signboards are rarely found hanging anywhere other than outside public houses, but in the 18th century all kinds of businesses displayed them. In order to catch the notice of the approaching customer the graphics had to be bold, colourful and immediately understood. Subtlety had no place in this kind of graphic communication and there can be little doubt that this design was intended to advertise The Crown Inn. This is very much a working drawing. It includes preliminary pencil sketches of three different crowns, one placed upon a cushion. The sheet has also been ‘squared up’ so that the design can be reproduced easily on the larger wooden signboard. Sign-painting was a recognised occupation and the V&A has 35 further designs by the same anonymous hand.

Victoria and Albert Museum