Japanese Antique Wood Carved Kanban Shop Sign Vinegar "Su" Taisho Showa Era

Japanese Antique Wood Carved Kanban Shop Sign Vinegar "Su" Taisho Showa Era

This is an authentic Japanese antique wooden shop sign (Kanban), historically used to advertise a vinegar (酢 - Su) merchant. It is a rare example of a "Keibutsu Kanban"—a sign carved into the shape of the product or its vessel to visually communicate the shop's trade to passersby.

The sign is expertly carved from heavy wood and features a jar-shaped upper section finished in gold leaf, with the kanji for "Vinegar" prominently displayed. The lower base is finished in traditional black and red lacquer, bearing the hand-painted characters for "Health Food" (健康食品) and "Quality Product" (良品). A sturdy metal ring and cord are attached for hanging.

Era:
Estimated Taisho to Early Showa era (Early 20th Century).

History of Japanese Kanban:
Traditional wooden Kanban represent the pinnacle of Japanese merchant folk art. Before the widespread adoption of mass-produced enamel (horo) signs in the mid-20th century, shops commissioned craftsmen to create unique wooden signs. These carved signs were designed to be durable and eye-catching, often using bold shapes and gold leaf to withstand the elements while projecting an image of prosperity. Wooden signs like this one were eventually replaced by enamel because enamel was cheaper and more weather-resistant, making these original hand-carved wooden pieces highly sought after by collectors today.

Size:
Height: approx. 40.0 cm / 15.7 in
Width: approx. 35.0 cm / 13.8 in
Depth: approx. 5.0 cm / 2.0 in
Weight: 2530 g / 5.58 lbs

Condition:
The sign exhibits significant signs of age, including peeling gold leaf, minor wood cracks, and surface scuffs on the lacquer. This weathered appearance provides an authentic vintage character. The structure remains heavy and solid.

Please check the photos carefully for details.