Private, 3rd Regiment, Illinois, National Guard, from the Military Series (N224) issued by Kinney Tobacco Company to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1888

This is a chromolithograph from a series of trade cards issued by the Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company to promote their Sweet Caporal Cigarettes in 1888. The image features a private from the 3rd Regiment, Illinois National Guard, depicted in full uniform with a musket. The colorful imagery and simple design are characteristic of this era's trade cards, which were used to advertise products and provide a form of entertainment. This specific card is a fine example of the "Military Series" from the Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company, showcasing the popular cultural trend of depicting military figures during this period. The card's vibrant color palette and detailed depiction of the private's uniform capture the spirit of the late 19th-century military culture. This card is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY.