Chocolat Menier enamel sign

Enamel sign for the famous Menier chocolate

This is an enameled advertising sign for Chocolat Menier, produced after Firmin Bouisset.

•  The illustration shows the famous little girl (Yvonne, Bouisset’s daughter) seen from behind, writing the brand name with a stick of chocolate — an iconic motif created by Bouisset for Menier as early as 1892-1893.

•  The version with the text “ÉVITER LES CONTREFAÇONS” (Avoid counterfeits) dates from 1895. It is part of an anti-counterfeiting campaign by the Menier company to protect its brand, which was widely imitated at the time.

Identical (or very similar) enamel signs are regularly listed at auction as “Chocolat Menier – Éviter les contrefaçons – after Firmin Bouisset.” 

Period

•  Creation of the motif: 1892-1895.

•  Production of the enamel signs: late 1890s – early 1900s (Belle Époque).

•  These signs were intended for shops, vending machines, and public spaces (including subway stations), hence their characteristic wear.

In summary: Chocolat Menier advertising sign, after Firmin Bouisset, circa 1895, “Éviter les contrefaçons” campaign.

presence of a keyhole on the left (some have it on the right) for opening the vending machine

condition as shown

dimensions: 39x20cm