Pin Cushion, from the Novelties series (N122) issued by Gail & Ax Tobacco to promote Navy Long Cut 1889

"Pin Cushion" is a chromolithograph from the "Novelties" series of trade cards issued by Gail & Ax Tobacco in 1889 to promote their Navy Long Cut tobacco. This card depicts a woman in a colorful head scarf and jeweled necklace, with the pin cushion represented by the decorative floral border framing the image. The vibrant colors and delicate detail of the artwork were typical of trade cards of the period, and it would have been widely distributed to consumers to advertise the tobacco product. This card is a prime example of the widespread use of visual media in late 19th century advertising and marketing.