Julia Marlowe in Colors of Dorchester Yacht Club, from the Yacht Colors of the World series (N140) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Honest Long Cut Tobacco 1890

This vibrant lithograph, produced around 1888 by W. Duke, Sons & Co., presents actress Julia Marlowe amidst symbols of the Dorchester Yacht Club. Nautical imagery abounds: oars, ropes, and a flag with a star, all speaking to themes of maritime adventure and social identity. Note the prominent anchor she wears: an emblem deeply rooted in history. Initially, in the early Roman catacombs, the anchor served as a disguised cross, embodying hope and steadfastness among early Christians. Over time, it evolved, becoming a symbol of maritime professions and, eventually, of stability and reliability in broader contexts. Consider how such a symbol, laden with layers of historical meaning, engages our subconscious. It is a powerful force, connecting us to a collective memory that transcends time, resurfacing and adapting across cultures. The anchor is not merely a static image but a dynamic carrier of cultural and psychological weight.