The Cigarettes Laurens is showing the great sphinx guarding the Pyramids in Giza/Gizeh, Egypt, under a starry sky. This image has become inseparable from the Laurens cigarette factory in Geneva, founded by Edouard Laurens in 1915. This signs was produced at the Emaillerie Belge in Brussels between 1926 and 1931. In this size (60cm x 80cm) several different productions exist. Since no producers mark or tax number, this sign was destined for export. In this case most likely The Netherlands or Switzerland. Allthough we have no proven record, it is most likely that the Laurens sphynx design was a creation from the hand of Géo Dorival, who also made the design for the matching Xanthia Cigarettes. In the sphinx character we notice the same technique that enhances the colors of the background layer. This technique became Dorival’s identifying mark that we immediately recognize in many other of his creations. The sign completes a total series of 7 identical oval sized (60cm x 80cm) Belgian produced enamel signs for the brands Laurens (3), Xanthia (2) and Turmac (2). All 7 were produced at the Emaillerie Belge Bruxelles between 1925 and 1935. The sign is in overall good condition, with fresh colors and superb gloss, although it has a few smaller impacts. A great asset for oriental tobacco lovers.