Sahara, from the Races of Mankind series (T181) issued by Abdul Cigarettes 1881

This chromolithograph titled ‘Sahara’ is from the Races of Mankind series, created by Abdul Cigarettes around the turn of the 20th century. At first glance, you’re struck by the portrait's symmetrical composition. A man with a white beard and a green turban dominates the frame, set against a muted background. The texture, achieved through lithography, creates a tactile sense that invites closer inspection. The work uses signs and symbols to communicate cultural ideas about race and identity during that time. The sharp lines of the man’s features contrast with the soft, patterned turban, suggesting a tension between the individual and the cultural markers they embody. In addition, the stylized rendering and the inclusion of the series title highlight the artwork's intent to categorize and present a specific view of humanity. In viewing this print, consider how the formal elements work to reinforce cultural narratives. The composition, color choices, and the very act of categorization underscore the complex relationship between art, representation, and identity.