Old enameled sign "Ciment" - France, circa 1900

Old enameled plate with the inscription "CIMENT" (Cement), from a set of enameled plates that equipped the drawers of an old paint merchant's cabinet. Cement was a mineral material commonly used in construction work, coatings, and various artisanal preparations. Paint merchants supplied pigments, colors, and various raw materials to painters, decorators, and artisans; their drawer cabinets allowed these numerous powders and preparations to be stored separately, each compartment identified by a plate like this one. The profession of paint merchant and its supplies are well documented around 1900.

✦ Estimated Period: Circa 1900-1920
✦ Origin: France, former paint merchant
✦ Dimensions: approx. 13 × 3 cm
✦ Material: Enameled plate
✦ Condition: Good used condition, with enamel chips on the edges, traces of oxidation, scratches, and partial wear of the lettering.

Old enameled "Ciment" (Cement) plate from a paint merchant's cabinet, a beautiful object reflecting the material and supply trades for artisans of the early 20th century.