Sword Bayonet, from the Arms of All Nations series (N3) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1887

Allen & Ginter created "Sword Bayonet" as part of their Arms of All Nations series of cigarette cards. The focus is immediately drawn to the standing figure, clutching a sword bayonet. The palette favours light pinks and beiges, creating a surface texture that seems both coarse and dreamlike. This card is more than just an illustration; it's a study in semiotics. Note the horizontal orientation of the card is balanced by the sword bayonet, and the figure's gaze, directed to the left. The weapon, juxtaposed against the fallen figure in the background, becomes a symbol loaded with meaning. Here, the sword bayonet becomes a signifier of power and colonial authority. Ultimately, this card encapsulates how art can operate within commercial contexts while also engaging with broader discourses of power, representation, and cultural exchange. Its value lies not only in its aesthetic appeal but also in its capacity to provoke reflection.