Bull Terrier, from the Dogs of the World series for Old Judge Cigarettes 1890

Editor: So, here we have "Bull Terrier, from the Dogs of the World series for Old Judge Cigarettes," dating to 1890. It’s currently at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. What I find most interesting is that it’s a promotional print for cigarettes, which feels a bit odd today. What do you make of this artwork? Curator: It's fascinating, isn't it? These types of trade cards offer a unique glimpse into the social fabric of the late 19th century. Mass-produced items like cigarette cards became vehicles for circulating knowledge, reinforcing societal values, and boosting commerce. In this case, how do you think associating the 'Bull Terrier' with 'Old Judge Cigarettes' would resonate with the consumer at the time? Editor: Perhaps it associated the brand with certain qualities: strength, loyalty, maybe even a bit of upper-class prestige since dog breeding was popular. But I'm also curious about the choice of a Bull Terrier specifically. Was this breed particularly popular, or did it hold some specific symbolic meaning in that era? Curator: Exactly. Bull Terriers were gaining popularity but also had a charged history tied to blood sports. By placing it within a "Dogs of the World" series, the producers also are arguably making an argument about dog breeding’s role within society at the time, moving from blood sport into family life. The format makes this more democratic, appealing to mass markets. How does understanding this historical context influence your understanding of the work? Editor: It makes me think more about the power of these everyday images to shape perceptions, and how companies used that power, perhaps without fully acknowledging the complex history surrounding the imagery. Thanks, that's very insightful. Curator: And it reminds us how everyday images are never neutral; they are always part of a broader conversation about culture and power. A great reminder for me as well.