A rare, large Japanese carved wooden advertising sign for Dokumetsu 毒滅, an early patent medicine introduced in 1900 by Morishita Nanyôdô 森下南陽堂 (later Morishita Hiroyakubô 森下博藥房, today Morishita Jintan Co., Ltd.). The oblong sign, distinguished by its elegant lobed corners and gilt inner border, is carved inscriptions and painted against a richly patinated kiri (paulownia) wooden ground. At its centre is a striking portrait of the German statesman Otto von Bismarck, adopted as the product's trademark to evoke intelligence, authority and strength. Across his head appears the product name Dokumetsu 毒滅 ("Destroy Poison"), while below are boldly carved characters reading Baidoku ばい毒, an old Japanese term for syphilis. The surrounding inscriptions advertise the medicine and read: “Joint prescription of seven medical doctors. Dokumetsu. Registered trademark. Bismarck. A new medicine for a complete cure. Original manufacturer: Morishita Hiro Pharmaceutical House.” 醫學士七名, 合同處方, 毒滅 登録商標, ビスマルク, 根治新劑 , 本舗 森下博薬房. Dokumetsu was introduced in 1900 as a treatment for syphilis, a disease for which no reliable cure yet existed. Its principal ingredient was an extract derived from the roots of sarsaparilla-related plants, long employed in traditional East Asian medicine. The medicine became one of Morishita's best-known early products and was promoted through an extensive network of authorised dealers across Japan, making elaborate carved shop signs such as this an important part of its marketing. As the manufacturer adopted the name Morishita Hiro Pharmaceutical House (Morishita Hiroyakubô 森下博藥房) in 1905, this example can be dated to the early 20th century. Period: Japan, early 20th century, Meiji to Taishô period (after 1905, before 1936). Dimensions: Height 121.3 cm; Width 60.5 cm. Considering its age, the sign is in very good condition, with wear consistent with long outdoor use, including minor losses to the painted surface and edges, a well-developed patina, and expected weathering. Please refer to the photographs for a clear impression of the condition. When shipped, a certificate of authenticity will be included.