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CHESHIRE ANTIQUES CONSULTANT LTD

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Item Details

Large Double-Sided British Heraldic Saddlery Trade Sign – J. Miles & Son, Dorchester
An impressive and highly decorative late 20th century British hand-painted equestrian trade sign, executed in the long-standing tradition of English saddlery and guild craftsmanship.
This substantial double-sided wooden panel was produced for J. Miles & Son of Dorchester, Dorset, a historic saddlery firm established in 1622 and associated with the Society of Master Saddlers. The sign presents a striking heraldic composition inspired by the arms of the Worshipful Company of Saddlers of the City of London, firmly situating the piece within a lineage of British equestrian and leatherworking heritage.
Description
A richly painted heraldic trade sign on a large-scale wooden panel, combining traditional British signwriting with formal armorial design. The composition reflects both commercial identity and decorative intent, making it equally suited to interior display.
The imagery incorporates:
Heraldic elements derived from historic livery company traditions
Equestrian motifs including rearing horses and saddlery references
Bold traditional shop signage
A formal armorial crest with strong symmetry
At the centre is a finely executed heraldic device featuring two rearing horses flanking a shield, above which sits a knight’s helmet and crowned horse crest, all framed by flowing mantling and a motto scroll.
The colour palette of ochre, black, red and muted tones is characteristic of traditional British signwriting, providing strong contrast and visual clarity. The panel is double-sided and set within a painted wooden frame, designed for visibility in a shopfront or exterior setting.
Craftsmanship & Technique
Hand-painted using traditional signwriting methods, the piece demonstrates a high level of technical skill and workshop practice.
Key features include:
Hand-painted serif lettering
Layered paint application on timber
Fine outlining and controlled brushwork
Decorative shading and stylised foliage
Balanced heraldic composition
The combination of commercial signwriting and heraldic painting elevates the work beyond functional signage into a piece of large-scale decorative wall art.
Maker
Unsigned, as is typical for trade signs of this type.
The quality of execution suggests production by a professional signwriting or decorative painting studio, commissioned by J. Miles & Son. The confident brushwork and accurate heraldic detailing indicate an experienced craftsman familiar with both traditional signwriting and armorial conventions.
Unsigned examples of this nature are increasingly valued as authentic survivals of British workshop practice.
Historical Context
The design draws directly on the visual language of the Worshipful Company of Saddlers, one of the oldest London livery companies, with origins dating to the medieval period and formal incorporation in the 14th century.
Such guilds historically regulated craft standards and continue to represent British trade heritage today. As a Master Saddlers-affiliated business, J. Miles & Son operated within this tradition, supplying equestrian equipment and leather goods.
The heraldic imagery reinforces this identity, linking the sign to a broader narrative of British craftsmanship, equestrian culture, and commercial history.
The motto featured:
Nostra Fides In Deo Est — “Our Trust Is In God”
Dimensions
Height: 101.7 cm
Width: 95 cm
Depth: 6 cm
A large and impactful piece, well suited to feature display.
Provenance
J. Miles & Son, Master Saddlers, Dorchester, Dorset
Private collection
Dukes Auctioneers, Dorset (label verso)
Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD
Originally used as a shopfront or display sign.
Condition
Good vintage condition consistent with age and original use.
General surface wear, scratches and scuffs
Areas of paint loss and minor historic overpainting
Craquelure to painted surfaces
Light staining and age-related patina
Frame with knocks and edge wear
Structurally sound and presents well, with wear contributing to its character and authenticity.
Additional Notes
A strong decorative statement piece, ideal for equestrian interiors, country houses, or traditional design schemes. The double-sided construction adds versatility for display, while the heraldic subject matter provides historical depth and visual interest.
Worldwide shipping available. Professionally packed and insured.

• Period: Late 20th century
• • Price: £4,000.00
  • €4,596 Euro
  • $5,407 US Dollar
• Location: London
• • Dimensions: H: 101.7cm (40.04in)
  • W: 95cm (37.40in)
  • D: 6cm (2.36in)