Infantry, Algeria, 1853, from the Military Series (N224) issued by Kinney Tobacco Company to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1888

This 1888 lithograph, part of a series commissioned by Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes, depicts a French soldier during the Crimean War. This colorful and detailed artwork is a prime example of "trade cards" that were popular in the 19th century, often featuring historical scenes or popular culture figures. The soldier is depicted in full uniform, standing in front of a landscape that likely represents Algeria. This piece, now in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, serves as a reminder of the early days of cigarette advertising and the connection between popular culture and historical events.