Tavern Sign c. 1940

"Tavern Sign" is a watercolor on paper work by John Matulis, completed in 1940, showing a carved wooden tavern sign. The sign is painted in muted tones with a ship on one side and a bird with its wings spread on the other. Both sides include the inscription "BY GDAMS", demonstrating a traditional folk aesthetic. The sign is a depiction of a traditional tavern sign, which was a common sight in the 18th and 19th centuries. Tavern signs were often used to advertise the name of the tavern, as well as to attract customers. The sign is a reminder of the importance of taverns in American history, and the role they played in the social and economic life of the community.