Pomeranian, from the Dogs of the World series for Old Judge Cigarettes 1890

This chromolithograph of a Pomeranian was made by Goodwin & Company as part of the "Dogs of the World" series, used to promote Old Judge Cigarettes. It's a humble object, really, a piece of paper printed with inks derived from industrial processes. But think about it: chromolithography was the late 19th-century's version of mass media. The production of these cards involved specialized labor, from the artists who created the original designs to the factory workers operating the printing presses. The process allowed for the relatively inexpensive reproduction of images, and the widespread distribution of collectible cards like these helped to fuel consumer culture. The texture of the paper, the specific hues of the inks, and the overall design all contribute to a sense of mass-produced charm. Even in something as seemingly simple as a cigarette card, we can see the interplay of art, industry, and consumerism. The history of design and craft is deeply intertwined with these forces, which shape not only what we make, but also how we value it.