London Signs and Inscriptions

"London Signs and Inscriptions" by Philip Norman is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the unique and artistic sculptured signs that mark various buildings and places throughout London, shedding light on the city's architectural history and cultural heritage. It delves into the significance of these signs, illustrating how they represent ownership, history, and the ambiance of the urban landscape. The opening of the work introduces the fascinating world of London's signs and inscriptions, revealing their importance as markers of identity for traders, establishments, and localities in the 18th century and earlier. Philip Norman, an artist and antiquary, provides a historical context for these signs, sharing stories and connections with past traditions. He discusses specific examples, such as the sculptured sign of the Boy and Panyer and the connections of various signs to local history and trade practices, setting the stage for a detailed exploration of thousands of unique signs across the city in subsequent chapters.