Trade Card for Frazer, Army Printer, Stationer and Bookbinder 1800 - 1900

This trade card, made by an anonymous artist, once served as an advertisement for Frazer, an army printer, stationer, and bookbinder. Observe the cherubs at the top; these figures, reminiscent of classical putti, symbolize creativity and divine inspiration. But note their occupation: one writes, another sketches, connecting the angelic realm to the earthly crafts of printing and bookbinding. This motif echoes through centuries, from Renaissance paintings where putti adorn sacred scenes, to secular advertisements associating products with purity and craftsmanship. Consider how the image of the angel evolved, transforming from religious icon to a symbol of commercial appeal. It's a fascinating journey through the collective memory, where sacred symbols are reinterpreted and repurposed to engage viewers on a subconscious level, imbuing everyday objects with a sense of timelessness and virtue. This cyclical progression highlights how symbols resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings in different contexts.