Vintage African Barber Shop Signs

Painted barber signboard from Africa.  Brightly painted in house-paints on plywood, these signs are a colourful, humorous African folk art. The signs often reflect both ancient African tradition of hair-braiding and hair-cutting and the cultural clash of imported (usually American) influences.

The signs may be painted by the barbers or hairdressers themselves, or by paid sign artists. They are intended both to identify the businesses and to advertise the services offered.

They are quite old and some blemishes are seen in the images which adds to their authenticity.  

Size: 73x61cm