Presence of Mind, from the Snapshots from "Puck" series (N128) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Honest Long Cut Tobacco 1888

"Presence of Mind" is a humorous trade card from the "Snapshots from 'Puck'" series created by W. Duke, Sons & Co. in 1888 to promote Honest Long Cut Tobacco. The card depicts a tailor caught in a comical situation, illustrating the importance of quick thinking in the face of unexpected challenges. The colorful lithograph, typical of the late 19th-century trade card style, features exaggerated characters and a detailed interior setting, highlighting the humorous aspect of the brand's message. This piece is now in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, showcasing the evolution of commercial art and its use in marketing campaigns.