A Boxer, from the Jokes series (N87) for Duke brand cigarettes 1890

"A Boxer" is a humorous illustration from the "Jokes" series of trade cards produced by W. Duke, Sons & Co. in 1890 to advertise Duke brand cigarettes. The card depicts a man wearing a cap and overalls, wielding a hammer above his head, seemingly ready to strike a wooden crate. The cartoonish style and comical pose of the figure were common elements in trade card illustrations of the era, aiming to attract attention and create a memorable brand association. The card exemplifies the use of humor in advertising during the late 19th century, a period when trade cards were a popular form of promotional material.