Where They Advertised Before M.A.D.

Mansion House Dwarf, Crown Derby, ca 1800
Serving the same purpose as today’s sandwich boards, announcements were displayed on the hats of dwarfs who stood outside Mansion House, home of the Mayor of London, to advertise events of public interest such as auctions, theatrical events and items for sale by different merchants. Also known by the earlier term of Grotesque Punches, the flamboyantly dressed figures were an eccentric element of London trading during the 19th century.
Where Classic Meets Curious
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