Sergeant, Artillery, United States Army, 1835, from the Military Series (N224) issued by Kinney Tobacco Company to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1888

This is a promotional trading card of an artillery sergeant made around 1888 by Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company to advertise Sweet Caporal Cigarettes. The small card features an image of a U.S. Army sergeant against a patterned backdrop, creating a distinct visual experience. The sergeant is depicted in a formal pose, his figure structured by the lines of his uniform and rifle. The composition is vertically oriented, emphasizing the figure's upright stance and projecting an image of military discipline. The use of color is strategic, with the blue of the uniform contrasting against the red and gold background, drawing the viewer's eye to the figure. These choices not only serve to define the subject, but also create a semiotic system where each element—the uniform, the rifle, the colors—contributes to the construction of an idealized image of military service. The patterned background, seemingly decorative, adds another layer, questioning the relationship between the individual and the broader social structures they represent. It's a fascinating blend of commercial and cultural coding.