Seeking Help With Chinese Translation

[reapp]

Hello Forum. It always amazes me at the depth of knowledge on TNET, and I was hoping that someone could help with the translation of this Chinese photograph....specifically, the signage on the exterior of the building. I found this at a garage sale years ago and have always wondered about it. It shows men standing outside of the building near barrels, and there are lanterns displayed in the windows. I have always assumed that it was an oil shop of some sort. The pictures is big, and measures 12" x 14". I guestimate that it is from the late 19th/early 20th century. Thanks in advance! David

 

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[Yang Hao]

WOW I really like the photo you posted. Let me help you with translation. Like you said it's a motor oil/petrol sale shop. The characters in concrete at the top are the same info as in the window.

Going from right to left:

緦經理 General manager.
美孚洋行 Mobil oil/petrol.
華美汽油行 Huamei brand oil/petrol.
車牌氣油 Name brand car oil/petrol.
批發處 wholesale outlet/store

The characters painted on the posts are
緦銷美孚汽油各中機器油 si xiao mobil oil/petrol and many kinds of machinery oil.

Hope this helps

 

[reapp]

Thank you, Yang! I knew that someone would be able to help! Could you tell me more about the photographer's stamp in the bottom corner of the picture? I assume it is his name and location. Thanks again!

 

[Yang Hao]

貞記照像
北京護國寺西口
电话西局2381

贞记照像
北京护国寺西口
电话西局2381

Zhen Ji Photography
Beijing Hu Guo Temple West
Phone number west office 2381

 

[tamrock]

How fun finding out what all that is in an old photo.

 

[reapp]

Wow! Thanks again Yang!