Toy Spaniel, from the Dogs of the World series for Old Judge Cigarettes 1890

This lithograph of a Toy Spaniel comes from a series of cigarette cards made in the United States by Goodwin & Company. These cards were designed to be collected and traded, a phenomenon that speaks to the rise of consumer culture in the late 19th century. The image itself tells a story of social status and leisure. Toy Spaniels, like many small dog breeds, were luxury items. Owning one signified wealth and a certain kind of refined sensibility. This card offered a glimpse into that world, democratizing access to aspirational lifestyles through mass-produced imagery. Studying these cards offers insights into the social values and cultural aspirations of the time. Trade cards are a testament to the power of images to shape our perceptions and desires. Delving into company archives, census records, and social histories can further illuminate the meanings embedded in these seemingly simple commercial objects.