original c. 1920's american art deco style ornamental cast bronze surface-mount elevator call button plaque or backplate salvaged from the richman brothers building located in downtown chicago. the skyscraper style rectangular-shaped backplates contains striking "stepped" vertical lines arranged at slight angles on both sides of the push button openings. the slightly raised or embossed "up" and "down" words are positioned next to their corresponding button opening. the plaque or backplate contains a nicely aged patina, with oxidation evident in the recessed regions. the richman brothers clothing store showroom (formerly known as the bee hive dry goods store constructed in 1884 by the architectural firm of adler and sullivan) underwent an extensive interior and exterior overhaul in 1929. a richly colored and lively terra cotta facade was added with large neon sign lettering running vertically along the sides of the building. interior elements resonated with the streamline or art moderne style popular at that time. only one available. measures approximately 3 x 8 inches.