W. McMickan, from the Sea Captains series (N127) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Honest Long Cut Tobacco 1887

This 1887 lithograph, part of the "Sea Captains" series, depicts W. McMickan, captain of the Cunard Line's "Umbria." Commissioned by W. Duke, Sons & Co. to promote their "Honest Long Cut" tobacco, the card features a portrait of McMickan against a background of a ship and a red flag with a golden lion, likely a reference to the Cunard line's flag. The artwork, now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, exemplifies a popular marketing trend of the late 19th century using collectible cards to promote products and engage consumers.