Hoffman House, from World's Dudes series (N31) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

This is "Hoffman House" from the "World's Dudes" series, a lithograph made by Allen & Ginter as an advertisement for cigarettes. This small card offers a glimpse into the gilded age of the late 19th century, a period marked by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and stark social inequalities. The "dude" depicted embodies the era's aspirational ideals of masculinity and class. With his top hat, tailored suit, and cane, he stands as a figure of leisure and refinement, representative of the upper class. The setting, likely a high-end establishment like the Hoffman House, signals exclusivity and luxury. However, this image also serves as propaganda. Cigarette cards like these were designed to appeal to consumers, associating smoking with sophistication and social status. In the context of today, it’s impossible not to see the way the card attempts to normalize and even glamorize tobacco use. The emotional appeal is clear: aspiration. What does it mean to recognize this now?