Life of Jean Louis Meissonier, from the Histories of Poor Boys and Famous People series of booklets (N79) for Duke brand cigarettes 1888

This chromolithograph depicts Jean-Louis Ernest Meissonier, a French painter, in the “Histories of Poor Boys and Famous People” series of booklets issued with Duke brand cigarettes in 1888. This booklet features the title “Life of J.L. Meissonier,” alongside the image of the artist. This booklet is part of a larger series that promotes Duke brand cigarettes. Although the artwork is not signed, the artist of the chromolithograph is attributed to the company, W. Duke, Sons & Co., which is known for its commercial artwork featuring famous people. The piece is an excellent example of the popular trend of cigarette card collecting in the late 19th century.