Private, Infantry, United States Army, 1886, from the Military Series (N224) issued by Kinney Tobacco Company to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1888

The Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company produced this chromolithograph in 1886 as part of a series promoting Sweet Caporal Cigarettes. The print depicts a U.S. Army infantry private in full uniform, standing rigidly at attention with his rifle. The composition is strikingly formal. The figure's erect posture and the verticality of the rifle create a sense of order and discipline. The artist uses clear, distinct lines to define the soldier’s uniform and equipment, emphasizing the geometric shapes of his helmet, jacket, and trousers. This precision reflects a broader cultural interest in standardization and representation, mirroring the industrial era's emphasis on uniformity. The limited color palette further contributes to the image's symbolic weight. The contrast between the dark blue jacket and lighter blue trousers separates the planes between the top and the bottom half of the image. It serves to highlight the soldier's role as a cog within the larger military apparatus. Ultimately, the print’s aesthetic underscores the cultural values of the time. It also invites us to consider how such images create and reinforce notions of national identity and military service.