Rare Vintage Japanese Yutaka-zome Home Dye Double-Sided Enamel Advertising Sign Showa Era, Japan – Estimated c. 1950s–1960s This is an original vintage Japanese enamel advertising sign for “Yutaka-zome” (ゆたか染), a Japanese household fabric dye brand. The Japanese text reads: 家庭染料 – “Home Dye / Household Dye” ゆたか染 – “Yutaka-zome” 特約店 – “Authorized Dealer” This sign would have been displayed at a shop authorized to sell Yutaka-zome household dyes in Japan. One of its most attractive features is its double-sided construction. The same bold advertising design appears on both sides, allowing the sign to be visible from either direction when displayed outside or around a shop. The striking combination of red, yellow and deep blue is characteristic of highly visible Japanese commercial advertising from the mid-20th century. Yutaka-zome is known from surviving vintage Japanese household dye bottles. Examples associated with both the pre-war and post-war periods have been documented, indicating that the brand has a history extending across the early to mid-20th century. Based on the typography, graphic design, enamel construction and overall appearance, this sign is believed to date approximately from the mid-Showa period, possibly around the 1950s–1960s. However, no manufacturer's mark or exact production date has been identified on the sign, so the dating should be regarded as an informed estimate. Today, surviving Japanese enamel advertising signs are collected not only as advertising memorabilia but also as examples of Showa-era Japanese graphic and commercial design. The large Japanese lettering, vivid primary colors, naturally aged enamel surface and double-sided format give this piece a particularly strong vintage character. It would make an interesting addition to a collection of Japanese advertising, enamel signs, Showa-era objects, industrial antiques, Japanese shop displays or vintage Asian graphic design. Dimensions: Approx. 45 cm wide Approx. 24 cm high Approx. 0.1 cm thick Weight: Approx. 870 g Material: Enamel-coated metal Construction: Double-sided advertising sign Advertising design on both sides Two mounting / hanging holes near the upper edge Condition: Authentic vintage condition with substantial signs of age and use. There are scratches, surface marks, discoloration, enamel loss and chipping, particularly around the edges and mounting holes. Rust and oxidation are visible where the enamel has been lost. There is also some distortion / bending to the metal plate. One of the upper mounting holes shows visible damage and deformation. Please carefully examine all photographs for the exact condition. The wear has not been restored and forms part of the authentic character and history of this old Japanese commercial sign. Origin: Japan Period: Showa period (1926–1989) Estimated c. 1950s–1960s Brand: Yutaka-zome (ゆたか染) Type: Japanese household dye authorized-dealer advertising sign A distinctive piece of Japanese Showa-era commercial history, preserved with the patina acquired through decades of actual use and storage. The item will be carefully packed for international shipment. ## Keywords Yutaka-zome, Yutaka Some, ゆたか染, Japanese enamel sign, vintage enamel sign, Japanese advertising sign, double sided sign, double sided enamel sign, Showa era, Showa retro, Japanese vintage, Japanese antique, household dye, home dye, dye advertising, authorized dealer sign, Japanese shop sign, vintage shop sign, Japanese signage, enamel advertising, porcelain enamel sign, Japanese commercial sign, mid century Japan, 1950s Japan, 1960s Japan, retro advertising, industrial decor, Japanese graphic design, vintage Japanese decor, collectible advertising ■Please Note■ Shipping Information: Items are shipped from Japan. As this involves international shipping, please be sure to check the shipping costs before placing a bid. Items are packed with great care to prevent damage during transit. Shipping costs are calculated based on the net weight of the item, packaging materials, and the weight of the shipping box. Depending on the situation, items will be shipped via DHL, FedEx, or Japan Post. Delivery typically takes 1 to 3 weeks. Import duties, taxes, and fees are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. You may be contacted by phone or email by customs authorities in your country or the shipping carrier regarding customs clearance procedures. Please ensure you are available to answer the phone. If the carrier is unable to contact you, the package will be returned to us, and you will be charged double the shipping fee for re-shipment. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.