19th‑Century American Gilded Grape Trade Sign

Exceptional 19th‑century American trade sign featuring a large cluster of hand‑carved wooden grapes, original iron hanger, and traces of early paint and gilding. In the 19th century, gilded grape signs were widely used by wine merchants, taverns, and vineyards to signal their trade to passersby, making this an iconic form of early American advertising.
This example remains unusually intact. The carved grape cluster retains its original surface, with mellow, age‑appropriate wear that reveals both the surviving gilding and areas of the traditional red bole beneath. The curled ironwork hanger—original to the piece—shows expected later repainting but no structural restoration. The body of the sign itself has not been restored, preserving the authenticity and character that collectors prize.
To display the sign in its current setting without compromising its 19th‑century workmanship, a local artisan fabricated a detachable steel hanger that allows the original ironwork to be suspended from a wooden post. Other installation methods are possible depending on the environment.
A rare and visually striking piece of American folk advertising, suitable for collectors of early signage, wine‑related antiques, and 19th‑century decorative arts.