Ace of Hearts (red), from the Playing Cards series (N84) for Duke brand cigarettes 1888

Editor: So, this is "Ace of Hearts (red)" from the Playing Cards series, made in 1888 by W. Duke, Sons & Co. It's a print, ink and drawing on paper. It’s smaller than I expected! What symbolic readings can we give such an everyday object elevated to the status of art? Curator: A playing card! Such an unassuming piece. Consider how a single image can function as both a symbol and a brand. The heart, obviously, connects to love, emotion, courage—think of the heart as the symbolic seat of emotions. Editor: Right, the heart is pretty universal. But this wasn’t exactly meant to hang on a wall, was it? Curator: No, no. This card was part of a cigarette package insert. Its function was dual: enticement to buy the Duke brand and an appeal to consumer sentiment through symbolic association. Consider how something ubiquitous, even mundane, gathers cultural weight. It reflects aspirations, pastimes. How do you see it connecting to American culture at the time? Editor: I guess it's a small window into leisure and advertising... Curator: Exactly. It hints at the rise of consumer culture and how symbolism was already being manipulated for commercial gain. The "Ace" suggests value, superiority; combined with the heart, it creates a potent message. Now preserved in a museum collection. Isn’t it remarkable how mass culture leaves its own, often unintentional, archeological record? Editor: Definitely gives you a lot to think about. Something so simple actually carries so much! Thanks. Curator: My pleasure. Seeing the familiar in a new light is always rewarding.