Steamship Norseman, Warren Line, from the Ocean and River Steamers series (N83) for Duke brand cigarettes 1887

This is a cigarette card from the Ocean and River Steamers series, made around 1900 for the Duke brand. Such cards were collected by smokers, and this one gives us a glimpse into the cultural and economic landscape of the time. Notice how the image creates meaning through visual codes, cultural references, and historical associations. The American flag, alongside the idealized image of the Western woman and the ship itself, evoke themes of commerce, travel and perhaps even a sense of national pride. These cards were not just about selling cigarettes. They promoted a certain lifestyle, connecting it to an institution of consumerism. By examining the iconography, advertising strategies, and the socio-economic context of such objects, we gain insight into the values and aspirations of the time. Art history involves a careful examination of an object's cultural and institutional context. By consulting archives, advertisements, and historical records, we come to understand the complex forces that shape its meaning and significance.