Antique Early 20th Century Lavatory Health Notice –possibly Victorian Metal-Back

SUGGESTED SELLING PRICE

### £75

This is a lovely piece of social history, with wonderfully old-fashioned wording and plenty of character. I would market it as a vintage lavatory hygiene notice, probably dating from the early 20th century, although the wording and wear makes us believe could be Victorian made from heavy card with printed words on a thinetal sheet

### Product description

### Antique Early 20th Century Lavatory Health Notice – possibly Victorian Metal-Backed Hygiene Sign

A wonderfully characterful piece of British social history, this vintage lavatory notice is a charming reminder of a time when even the smallest aspects of everyday life were accompanied by a polite but firm instruction!

Headed **“HEALTH.”**, the notice reads:

*“On leaving the Lavatory, please see same is as clean as you would wish to find it yourself on entering. THANK YOU.”*

With its traditional black lettering, aged cream background and beautifully weathered appearance, this is a fascinating survivor of an earlier approach to public hygiene and good manners.

Believed to date from the early decades of the 20th century,( possibly Victorian) the notice is presented on a rectangular metal-backed plate with four original-style mounting holes, one at each corner.

**A little social history**

During the late Victorian and Edwardian periods, growing awareness of public health and sanitation brought an increasing number of written notices into workplaces, institutions, railway premises and public conveniences.

These notices encouraged cleanliness and consideration for others, often using the formal language and courteous instructions characteristic of the period.

Although the original location of this particular sign is unknown, its wording and typography provide a delightful glimpse into the social customs of a bygone age.

**Condition**

In heavily weathered vintage condition, with substantial age-related staining, discolouration, cracking and lifting or losses to the printed surface, particularly around the edges and lower section. The metal reverse displays extensive surface rust and corrosion.

The lettering remains largely readable despite the deterioration.

The condition is an important part of its appearance, although the fragile areas should be handled with care. Please study the photographs carefully as they form part of the description.

**Why we love it**

It's the wording that makes this one special! A wonderful combination of good manners, social history and just a little unintended humour.

Perfect for a period bathroom, traditional pub, quirky cloakroom or as an unusual addition to a collection of vintage signs and historical curiosities.

An original-looking piece of everyday history, full of charm, patina and personality.

**Price: £75.00**

Pricing rationale: Comparable period lavatory and hygiene signs have a wide range of values, depending on rarity, construction and condition. A Great Western Railway lavatory notice carried a £40 auction estimate, while a rare workhouse hygiene sign achieved £140. Our example has attractive period character, but the significant surface damage needs is reflected in the price.( Personally I love it the look wording over paint etc give this a totally original look not reproduction!!!! Probably came from an outside Victorian public toilet?)

Vintage Lavatory Health Notice – Old Metal Backed Toilet Sign – Social History

Two details worth confirming the front is printed paper beneath a protective coating. The photographs suggest this may be the construction, this is not a traditional vitreous enamel. Makes it a rare survivor!!!