Left Hand Stop, Solomon Smith and Johnny Van Heest, from the Boxing Positions and Boxers series (N266) issued by P. Lorillard Company to promote Red Cross Long Cut Tobacco 1893

This 1893 lithograph by the P. Lorillard Company depicts two boxers, Solomon Smith and Johnny Van Heest, in a boxing stance. The card, which is part of the "Boxing Positions and Boxers" series, was issued to promote the company's "Red Cross Long Cut" tobacco. The card's simple composition, featuring the boxers in a detailed, yet slightly exaggerated, style, is characteristic of trade cards from the late 19th century, which often served as a form of advertisement. The image, featuring the boxers in their boxing stance, depicts the "Left Hand Stop" boxing technique. This card, and others in the series, offer a glimpse into the popular culture of 19th-century America.