Old Tavern Signs: An Excursion in the History of Hospitality

The book traces the history and symbolism of tavern signs as outward tokens of hospitality, following their development from ancient and ecclesiastical origins through secular, knightly, and popular forms. It surveys how signs function in art and literature, considers artists who designed and painted signs, and explores political uses and regional peculiarities, including particular English features. Richly illustrated examples accompany chapters that link visual motifs to social customs, poetic references, and the gradual decline of traditional signage, concluding with reflections on meaning and loss.