Today signboards are rarely found hanging anywhere other than outside public houses, but in the 18th century all kinds of businesses displayed them. In order to catch the notice of the approaching customer the graphics had to be bold, colourful and immediately understood. Subtlety had no place in this kind of graphic communication and there can be little doubt that this design was intended to advertise The Crown Inn. This is very much a working drawing. It includes preliminary pencil sketches of three different crowns, one placed upon a cushion. The sheet has also been ‘squared up’ so that the design can be reproduced easily on the larger wooden signboard. Sign-painting was a recognised occupation and the V&A has 35 further designs by the same anonymous hand.