Fridolin & Søn Metal Tag / Vintage Industrial Maker's Plaque
Other (Maker's Mark / Hardware component) · Industrial / Early 20th Century · Likely a Danish manufacturer or workshop, bearing the text 'Denmark'
Type
Other (Maker's Mark / Hardware component)
Style Period
Industrial / Early 20th Century
Material
Cast iron or stamped steel with severe oxidation and rust
Age Estimate
Circa 1900-1950
Dimensions
Small plaque, approximately 3 inches wide by 1.5 inches high
Origin
Denmark, early 20th-century industrial provenance
Designer/Maker
Likely a Danish manufacturer or workshop, bearing the text 'Denmark'
Value Estimate
Nominal value as a standalone component; adds contextual value to a restored industrial furniture piece.
Description
This image focuses on a heavily rusted, oval-shaped maker's plaque or identification tag. Affixed to a piece of industrial furniture, machinery, or storage equipment, the tag features raised lettering and decorative flourishes typical of European manufacturing plates from the first half of the 20th century. The word 'Denmark' is clearly legible at the bottom, indicating Scandinavian origin.
Key Features
Oval shape, raised lettering, riveted edges, prominent 'Denmark' stamp, heavy rust patina
Color & Finish
Extensively rusted, oxidized orange-brown with remnants of a metallic or painted base
Construction Method
Embossed or cast metal plaque, riveted or screwed onto furniture or equipment
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Industrial mechanical fastening via rivets
Wood Grain & Species
N/A
Surface Treatment
Heavy rust and environmental corrosion over original metal finishing
Upholstery Details
N/A
Hardware & Fittings
Secured with two metal rivets or rounded screws on either end
Origin & Provenance
Denmark, early 20th-century industrial provenance
Condition Notes
Poor structural condition due to severe oxidation and rust, though the maker's details remain partially legible through the corrosion.
Interesting Facts
Maker's tags like this are crucial for antique dealers and historians to accurately trace the origin and manufacturing date of industrial and utilitarian furniture pieces.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the robust manufacturing history of early industrial design in Denmark, transitioning from artisan workshops to mass-produced industrial goods.
Similar Pieces
Various European industrial maker's plates and cast iron foundry badges from the early 1900s.
Care & Maintenance
Requires gentle rust stabilization using a neutralizing agent or light oil if preservation of the patina is desired, preventing further flaking.
Value Estimate
Nominal value as a standalone component; adds contextual value to a restored industrial furniture piece.
Sustainability Notes
Exemplifies high durability and longevity of historical industrial goods, though currently compromised by environmental exposure.