Caricatured Indian, 2 Annas, from the series Coins of All Nations (N72, variation 1) for Duke brand cigarettes 1889

This vibrant lithograph, printed by W. Duke, Sons & Co., presents a caricatured figure from India, part of a series promoting Duke brand cigarettes. The exaggerated features—the oversized head crowned with a striped turban, the dark skin, and the snakes—immediately grab your attention. The composition is structured to emphasize symbolic contrasts. The figure's static pose, juxtaposed with the dynamic curves of the snakes, creates a visual tension, reflecting the complexities of cultural representation and the exoticization of the 'other'. The coin, centrally placed, underscores the economic underpinnings of cultural exchange, subtly questioning the power dynamics inherent in such transactions. The use of caricature can be interpreted as a visual signifier of colonial attitudes, simplifying and distorting cultural identity for commercial purposes. This challenges viewers to consider how visual language perpetuates stereotypes and reinforces hierarchical structures. The card prompts critical reflection on the relationship between commerce, representation, and cultural identity.