🔥 RARE Antique 1880’s Original Barber Pole - San Francisco California Find

Description

Barber’s trade sign / painted wood with metal hook mount / c. 1880s
Antique turned and painted wooden barber pole, c. late 19th century. The red, blue and white barber pole advertised more than a haircut in the nineteenth century. Barbers performed bloodletting as a standard service, and the pole’s red stripe possibly represented blood and the white, bandages. This example retains an old paint and surface — a rarity, as these are often stripped and repainted. Many “antique” barber poles on the market are actually doctored and painted newel posts or other repurposed architectural features. Turned expressly as trade sign, this antique barber pole is guaranteed authentic. Approximately 33 1/4 inches tall (not including hook mount.) Acquired from an old estate in San Francisco, California in the early 1990’s. This piece is heavy! Over 20 pounds, and this is why shipping is what it is. Pleased check my other listings for more wonderful and unique artworks!
Condition
Good antique condition, with an old split down one side, paint loss and honest surface patina.