Brooklyn Bridge By Daylight, from the Magic Changing Cards series (N223) issued by Kinney Tobacco Company 1889

This is a chromolithograph card from the Magic Changing Cards series, showcasing the Brooklyn Bridge, published by Kinney Tobacco Company in the late 19th century. The bridge itself is the dominant symbol here, an emblem of connection and progress. Look closely, and you’ll see how this image echoes ancient Roman aqueducts, structures that also symbolized technological prowess and the binding together of communities. Even the ships beneath its arches evoke a sense of movement and transition, reminiscent of the mythical ferryman Charon, guiding souls across the river Styx. The bridge, ever evolving, appears time and again in art, literature, and our collective consciousness. Its presence taps into a deep-seated human desire to overcome barriers, both physical and metaphorical. As you gaze upon this image, consider how this enduring symbol continues to resonate, bridging the gap between our past and our future.