Venus, Goddess of Beauty, from the Goddesses of the Greeks and Romans series (N188) issued by Wm. S. Kimball & Co. 1889

This small lithograph of Venus, Goddess of Beauty, was part of a series produced by the Wm. S. Kimball & Co., a cigarette manufacturer, as collectible cards included in their products. These cards were immensely popular in the late 19th century, reflecting a growing interest in classical themes and the commodification of beauty. Here, Venus is depicted with fair skin and flowing red hair. Her gaze is soft, and she appears gentle and inviting. This representation echoes the Victorian era’s idealized standards of beauty. The card participates in a broader cultural narrative where women, often reduced to their physical attributes, were celebrated as emblems of beauty and purity. Yet, it's hard not to notice the commercial interests at play. How does the packaging of Venus as a symbol of beauty intersect with the marketing of a product like cigarettes? Consider the ways in which images can shape our desires and reinforce cultural norms. This small card speaks volumes about the entwined relationship between commerce, beauty, and identity.