Commodore, Spain, 1886, from the Military Series (N224) issued by Kinney Tobacco Company to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1888

Editor: Here we have a lithograph from 1888, titled "Commodore, Spain, 1886." It's part of the Military Series by Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company, meant to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes. The figure has this striking red sash against a very buttoned-up uniform. How would you approach interpreting a piece like this? Curator: Let's consider its formal qualities. Notice the figure’s erect posture and stern gaze, which suggest authority. Observe, too, the composition. The Commodore is centrally located with symmetry, almost flattened perspective and precise details in the uniform which suggests a controlled formality. The medium itself, lithography with colored pencil, emphasizes precise lines and flat color, contributing to a sense of order and decorum. What does this flatness do, in your opinion? Editor: Well, I think the flatness gives it this poster-like quality that is both classical, but also very eye-catching because it’s simplistic. Almost cartoonish in its directness? Curator: Precisely. The flat colors and sharp lines contribute to its legibility and immediate impact, an essential element of effective advertising. Furthermore, consider the limited palette: the blues and reds punctuated by the gold. It is intentionally crafted to capture attention quickly and convey a sense of sophistication linked to the promoted product. Is it effective in its use of colour to drive attention to a certain status? Editor: Definitely. The colours all speak to the image the company would be trying to create for its customers. I hadn't really thought about the flatness in terms of drawing focus before. Curator: Understanding these artistic decisions provides a deeper appreciation, not just of its artistic merit, but of its cultural purpose. We can see how the elements combine to construct a certain cultural meaning to which to aspire. Editor: It's fascinating to see how the form really drives home the function in this image. Thank you for showing me new ways of analysis!