Vice-Brigadier, Foot Carbineers, Italy, 1886, from the Military Series (N224) issued by Kinney Tobacco Company to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1888

This chromolithograph of a Vice-Brigadier of the Italian Foot Carbineers was made by Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company in 1886 as a promotional insert for Sweet Caporal Cigarettes. These cards were part of a larger trend of using images of military figures to project an image of strength and sophistication. The choice of an Italian officer reflects the growing public interest in European nations and their colonial power. Italy itself was a relatively new nation in 1886, having unified only fifteen years earlier. The military was seen as an important symbol of national unity and strength. By studying sources from this time, such as newspapers, magazines, and military records, we can get a better understanding of the social and cultural context in which this image was made and consumed. The image's meaning lies in its relationship to that historical moment.