Extremely rare illustrated catalogue of enameled metal signboards, plates and large copper letters intended for signs, name and number plates, a clock fave, etc. The catalogue was issued by the brothers Luigi and Giovanni Ravasi, described on the wrapper-title as the suppliers of the Italian State Railways and the Royal Navy. They offer enameled plates, etc. on iron, zink and copper. No other copies of the present catalogue, nor copies of other catalogues of the firm could be located or found recorded in the literature.
Of special interest is the very large poster showing in full size specimens of the capital E of 5 different styles, each in 6 to 8 sizes (labelled Romano [clarendon], Fantasia [tuscan], Palla [tuscan-like], Bastone [sans-serif, with 3 alternative forms] and Capitale [with roman and clarendon characteristics], 3 to 15 cm), as well as pointing hands, panels and other decorations. The catalogue itself illustrates the signboards, plates, etc., ranging from simple house numbers to a crowned and mantled Milan coat of arms with a chain border.
With a small smudge and a few spots on the wrappers, and two tiny holes in the folds of the poster. Otherwise in very good condition. The staples are slightly rusty and the fold of the wrapper worn. Not in ICCU; KVK/WorldCat.