Vintage French Cast Iron House Number Plaque No. 5, Beaumont-du-Périgord

A wonderfully distinctive French cast iron house number plaque, found in Beaumont-du-Périgord in the Dordogne. Numbered 5, the plaque has a deeply recessed centre, raised numeral and an unusual crenellated architectural motif above, a design that can still be seen on house numbers throughout the historic town.

Beaumont is a medieval bastide, and the decorative crest appears to evoke a fortified wall or mural crown, particularly appropriate to the architecture and history of the town. These plaques seem to form part of a numbering scheme created specifically for Beaumont rather than being a standard design used throughout France.

The plaque is believed to date from the early 20th century. Local research also suggests a connection with the historic foundry at Excideuil, now known as Lacoste Forge & Fonderie, although we have not been able to document the original commission conclusively.

The cast iron has developed a wonderfully weathered surface through many years of exposure, with extensive oxidation and a mottled patina of dark grey, rust brown and subtle blue-green tones. 

An unusual piece of French architectural salvage with a particularly strong connection to the historic streetscape of Beaumont-du-Périgord. It would make a striking decorative object in its own right, whether displayed on a wall, incorporated into an interior or used as part of an architectural collection.

Sourced in: South West France
Age: Late Early 20th century
Material: Cast Iron
What makes it special: Its unusual motif and weathered appearance

Vintage French Cast Iron House Number Plaque No. 5 Details:

Height: 5.5” / 14cm

Width: 3.7” / 9.5cm

Weight: 1.9 lbs / 894g

Condition: The cast iron has developed a wonderfully weathered surface through many years of exposure, with extensive oxidation. Please see the images.