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Ben Shahn - SIGN ON A RESTAURANT WE CATER TO WHITE TRADE ONLY 1938 75x100 cm / 30x40inches Fine Art Poster

Ben Shahn - SIGN ON A RESTAURANT WE CATER TO WHITE TRADE ONLY 1938 75x100 cm / 30x40inches Fine Art Poster

Regular price $207.99 USD
Regular price $311.00 USD Sale price $207.99 USD
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A Poignant Fragment of American History: Ben Shahn’s 1938 Social Realism

Ben Shahn's 1938 photograph, 'Sign on a Restaurant, We Cater to White Trade Only,' serves as a profound and sobering artifact of the American landscape during the Great Depression. Originally captured for the Farm Security Administration (FSA), this piece is more than a photograph; it is a document of social justice and the stark realities of segregation. At RedKalion, we present this museum-quality reproduction with the gravity and historical respect it deserves.

Shahn, a pillar of the Social Realism movement, utilized his lens to expose systemic inequality. This specific image, captured in Lancaster, Ohio, highlights that the 'color line' was a national issue, not confined solely to the Deep South. By selecting this fine art print, you are preserving a critical moment of historical commentary, rendered with modern archival precision.

To honor Shahn’s documentary legacy, our reproductions are crafted on Master's Edition archival paper. The luxurious matte, uncoated finish offers a natural white (off-white) texture that eliminates glare, allowing the stark, high-contrast details of the 1938 original to resonate. This is a 250 gsm (110 lb) heavyweight print designed to endure for generations.

  • Archival Excellence: Acid-free (pH above 7) paper ensures the print will not yellow or degrade over time.
  • Premium Texture: A thickness of 0.29 mm (11.4 mils) provides a substantial, museum-grade feel.
  • Sustainability: We utilize FSC-certified paper, aligning historical preservation with environmental responsibility.
  • Curated Quality: RedKalion ensures every print meets the rigorous standards of elite art galleries.

Elevate your space with an archival masterpiece that serves as both a powerful historical testament and a sophisticated work of documentary art.

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Discover Unlimited Art Possibilities

At RedKalion, you can find virtually any artwork from any artist, available in a wide range of sizes to perfectly match your space.

If you didn’t find what you’re looking for, contact us at support@redkalion.com . We will source any artwork and produce it in any size and format you need, including art prints, posters, canvas, framed pieces, framed canvas, and more.


For dedicated art enthusiasts, we also offer handcrafted replicas of any artwork, carefully painted by highly skilled artists using traditional techniques.

For custom requests, contact us at support@redkalion.com .

What is the significance of Ben Shahn's 1938 photograph?

Captured for the FSA, this photograph is a seminal work of Social Realism. It documents racial segregation in 1938 Ohio, serving as a powerful visual record of American social history and the fight for civil rights.

What are the paper specifications for this fine art print?

We use Master's Edition archival paper, which is 250 gsm (110 lb) with a thickness of 0.29 mm. It features a matte, uncoated, natural white finish for a premium, non-reflective appearance.

Is the paper used for this reproduction sustainable?

Yes, RedKalion is committed to sustainability. This specific print uses FSC-certified paper, ensuring it meets the highest environmental and social standards for responsible forest management.

How does RedKalion ensure the longevity of this archival print?

Our prints are acid-free with a pH above 7, which prevents the paper from yellowing or becoming brittle. This archival quality ensures the artwork remains in museum condition for decades.

What is the shipping and fulfillment process?

Each order is printed on demand with no minimum requirements. We ship globally using robust packaging to ensure your museum-quality poster arrives in perfect condition.

Where was this specific photograph taken by Ben Shahn?

This iconic image was captured in Lancaster, Ohio, in 1938. It is often cited as a key example of how segregation manifested in the American Midwest during the Great Depression era.

What artistic movement does Ben Shahn belong to?

Ben Shahn was a leading figure in the Social Realism movement. His work focused on the everyday struggles of the working class and addressed themes of social injustice and political activism.