Nautical Trade Signs

Nautical trade signs date back to 14th Century Europe and are usually featured as an emblem to designate the trade for the unreading public. These colorful signs were used to hung outside port taverns to remind illiterate seamen where they were drinking. These signs needed to be eye catching, large and interesting to make a lasting impression, so that the sailors would come again on their next shore leave.

Today these nautical trade signs designate and decorate a bar, hotel or restaurant. All of them are beautifully crafted and it takes many days each to manufacture and antique. Many of the signs are in the style of the antique originals, individually hand painted. Being one of the most exquisite and unusual of nautical items, the details and colors of these trade signs vary according to the mood of the artist.

The various forms of nautical trade signs include that of marine life such as Salmon, Sailfish, Seahorse, Trout, Whale etc. These are both useful & decorative items and are also taken as great gift ideas for that someone special.