Varnishes Collection

Hand Manicure
A hand manicure. Nails are carefully clipped and a choice of stylish nail varnishes in little bottles is offered. Date: 1930s

Advert for Peggy Sage
Wartime advert for Peggy Sage Salons and nail polish. Date: 1940

Adverts, Blacklock & Macarthur, Ewing & Lawson, Glasgow
Adverts for Blacklock & Macarthur, manufacturers of paints, oils, varnishes, etc, Glasgow, and Ewing & Lawson, Crownpoint Boiler Works, Glasgow, Scotland. 1905

Page of Advertisements (engraving)
1107412 Page of Advertisements (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Page of Advertisements)

Fire at supply depot, Limmer Wharf, Barking, Essex
Panoramic view of a fire which broke out at a Ministry of Supply depot, Limmer Wharf, Barking, Essex, on 27 October 1947. Seen here is the fire in its early stages

Fire at supply depot, Limmer Wharf, Barking, Essex
Panoramic view of a fire which broke out at a Ministry of Supply depot, Limmer Wharf, Barking, Essex, on 27 October 1947. Seen here is the fire in its early stages

Madras Check Frock 1940S
A young woman, wearing a madras check dress with short puff sleeves, paints her nails

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"Varnishes: The Perfect Finish for a Hand Manicure" Step into the world of elegance and sophistication with varnishes, the ultimate touch to complete your hand manicure. As seen in the captivating advert for Peggy Sage, these exquisite products promise to enhance your nails' beauty like never before. Flipping through pages of advertisements from renowned brands such as Blacklock & Macarthur and Ewing & Lawson, it becomes evident that they were highly sought after in Glasgow. Their popularity soared as women yearned for flawless nails that exuded charm and grace. A glimpse at an engraving showcasing a page of advertisements reveals the diverse range available during those times. From vibrant hues to subtle shades, there was something to suit every taste and occasion. However, not all stories surrounding they were glamorous. A devastating fire at Limmer Wharf in Barking, Essex disrupted the supply depot's operations. This unfortunate incident served as a reminder of how precious these products were to both consumers and suppliers alike. Turning our attention back to fashion catalogs from 1939-40 by Army and Navy Stores, we witness their commitment to offering top-quality varnishes. These litho-printed pages showcase an array of options that would undoubtedly captivate any nail enthusiast's heart. The Architects Compendium also featured a page dedicated solely to varnishes – highlighting their versatility beyond just personal grooming. It showcased how these remarkable finishes could elevate architectural designs with their glossy sheen or matte allure. Intriguingly enough, another set of litho-printed pages from Army and Navy Stores further emphasized the significance placed on varnish offerings during this era. Clearly demonstrating its widespread appeal among customers seeking perfection in every detail. Whether you desired impeccable nails or wished to add finesse to architectural masterpieces, one thing remained certain –varnishes held immense power when it came down to creating a lasting impression.