Authentic early 20th century Italian industrial warning sign featuring the striking message “NON TOCCARE SI MUORE” (“Do not touch – you will die”), combined with a powerful skull and crossbones motif. This type of signage belongs to the early electrification era in Italy, when industrial safety standards were not yet regulated and visual communication relied on strong, direct and universally understandable symbols to prevent fatal accidents. Manufactured in pressed metal (steel or iron), the sign displays embossed lettering and detailed graphic work, typical of early industrial production. The surface shows a rich and genuine original patina, with oxidation, wear and paint loss consistent with long-term exposure in industrial environments. Notably, several areas of enamel and paint are missing — especially around the skull motif — a detail that strongly enhances the authenticity and historical character of the piece. Rather than diminishing its appeal, these losses testify to nearly a century of real industrial use, exposure and survival, giving the sign an exceptionally raw and evocative presence impossible to reproduce artificially. Such signs were commonly installed in: power stations and transformer rooms railway infrastructure factories and mechanical workshops The dramatic wording and bold imagery reflect a pre-regulation period, where warning messages were intentionally explicit and uncompromising. The skull and crossbones symbol, widely recognized as a universal sign of danger, reinforces the visual impact and makes this piece highly collectible and decorative. Dimensions: approx. 20 x 16.5 cm Material: pressed metal Period: early 20th century (circa 1900–1930) Condition: original patina, unrestored, with visible enamel and paint losses, oxidation and signs of authentic age and use fully consistent with its industrial history A highly evocative and authentic piece of early industrial safety history, carrying almost 100 years of atmosphere and wear, ideal for collectors of vintage signage, industrial design and historical memorabilia.