Red Lion Inn Sign c. 1939

This Red Lion Inn Sign was made by Martin Partyka, sometime between 1855 and 1995, and looks to be made with paint on wood. It's a real beauty! The painting has a very specific kind of flatness that comes with a self-taught hand. The red is warm, almost rusty, and the lion's outline is soft, like it’s been worn by the weather. Look at the tail! The curve is so gentle, ending with that tiny, deliberate brushstroke of black. It's these little details that really bring the sign to life. The color palette is limited, but each color is carefully placed to create a harmonious whole. I think this work reminds me of the work of Bill Traylor, especially the way the shapes and colors work together to create a powerful and evocative image. It shows how signs, like paintings, embrace simplicity and multiple interpretations, and keep us guessing.