Admiral, Spain, 1886, from the Military Series (N224) issued by Kinney Tobacco Company to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1888

This is Admiral, Spain, 1886, from the Military Series (N224), a promotional artwork crafted by the Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company using lithography. The composition is dominated by the figure of a Spanish admiral, rendered with precise lines and vibrant color. The artist's selection of dark blues and reds, accented by the gold braiding, creates a visual hierarchy, drawing the eye to the admiral's face and the ornate details of his uniform. Consider how the lithographic technique, with its capacity for detail and color fidelity, supports the commercial function of the image. The intent is not just representation but also persuasion. Each element, from the cut of the admiral's coat to the set of his jaw, presents an image of authority and elegance, subtly associating these qualities with the Sweet Caporal brand. This interplay between image and commerce highlights how aesthetic forms are often intertwined with broader systems of value and exchange.