Portrait of woman, from the Novelties series (N228, Type 1) issued by Kinney Bros. 1889

This small portrait of a woman, part of the Novelties series by Kinney Bros., presents a vision of youthful, rosy-cheeked innocence, a popular ideal at the turn of the century. Consider the smile: it is a motif, a gesture, that transcends time. From ancient Greek sculptures to Renaissance portraits, the smile appears, yet its meaning shifts. Here, it signifies more than mere happiness. It suggests accessibility, a connection to the viewer, and a subtle invitation into the world of the commodity. This is a sentiment we see repeated in commercial portraiture throughout history. The circular format adds another layer, evoking the Renaissance 'tondo,' a format often used for intimate portraits, suggesting a sense of completeness and containment, but here, it serves a different purpose, turning the individual into a collectible object. This melding of art and commerce engages our subconscious desires, linking beauty with consumerism. It is a potent symbol, whose power continues to resonate today.