An antique John Bull advertising showcard. This original piece showcases bold period typography and features John Bull in a top hat and union flag waistcoat proudly standing in front of a rising sun.
Designed for display in garages, motor factors and shop windows, John Bull showcards were created to immediately catch the customer’s eye. This one would have quickly caught the attention of a passer by with its bright colouring and bold lettering.
The showcard reads 'John Bull. Lively - long wearing. Made for the man who will have the best'.
John Bull was created in the early 18th Century as a national personification of Great Britain. Similar to Uncle Sam representing the US, John Bull came to symbolise the typical Englishman. John Bull quickly became a symbol of British identity, strength, and reliability. Because of this, in the motor trade, John Bull was used to market tyres, tools and motor accessories to reassure customers the product was British made, tough, dependable and built to cope with British roads and weather.
Ideal for display in a garage, workshop, showroom, man cave or vintage-themed interior.
Dimensions: Diameter 62.5cm
Condition: Good. Typical age and use wear mainly to the outer rim.
Item No. 8360
