Already in 1906/1908 Belgian artist and painter Gerard Portielje (BE, 1856-1929), who was born in Antwerp, drew up this nice design for Elixir D’Anvers, an Antwerp liquor. Portielje specialized in genre scenes in a variety of social settings, generally filled with people who might be described as “characters”. They are often humorous (occasionally suggestive), and there is usually a sense that something is about to happen. The clothing and accessories point to the early 19th century, rather than his own times. Apart from his traditional work, he was also commissioned to create posterdesigns and advertisements. Two of his designs for Elixir d’Anvers were produced as enamel advertising signs at the beginning of the 20th century. An absolute pioneer brand in Antique Enamel Advertising Art ! This “Langcat” (Holland) production dates from around 1951. This sign shows some older restorations without any further history/details.