lllustration for The Saturday Evening Post, February 22, 1936. ©1936 SEPS: Curtis Licensing, Indianapolis, IN. All rights reserved.
In this lively colonial scene, Norman Rockwell depicts a sign painter replacing a tavern sign bearing the image of King George Ill with one portraying George Washington - a humorous but pointed symbol of America's political transformation from British colony to independent nation. Townspeople crowd around the artist to observe the change, their varied reactions animating the scene with curiosity, skepticism, and excitement.
Colonial sign painters were skilled artisans who created hand-painted images and lettering for taverns, inns, shops, and public buildings at a time when many people could not read. Pictorial signs served as essential markers of identity and place. Painted during the 1930s amid rapid industrialization and modernization, The New Tavern Sign reflects Rockwell's own role in shaping a shared American identity.
Quality
Norman Rockwell Museum Custom Prints offers exclusive custom reproductions of artworks in the collections and exhibitions of the Norman Rockwell Museum. Hand-made in the USA using gallery-quality materials, we create prints as true to the original work as possible, using strict color management protocols and state-of-the-art printing technology.Selection
Many of the works offered through this store are exclusive and not available anywhere else. We are continually adding new artworks to our offering, so be sure to check back regularly as you build your own gallery. A variety of molding styles means our custom framed prints can match any type of decor.