Javelin, from the Arms of All Nations series (N3) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1887

Allen & Ginter's "Javelin, from the Arms of All Nations series" is an alluring chromolithograph, that captivates with its vibrant colors and precise lines. The composition focuses on a central figure, a warrior, adorned in elaborate attire, holding a javelin and shield, set against a backdrop that suggests a distant landscape. The artist employs a formal structure that balances ethnographic curiosity with commercial appeal. Note the meticulous detail in the warrior's clothing, the color palette - rich blues, reds, and golds - creates a sense of exoticism. The javelin, held diagonally, cuts through the composition, adding a dynamic element to the otherwise static pose. The shield, boldly colored and patterned, acts as a counterweight, grounding the figure. This image is more than just a depiction of weaponry; it also functions within a complex system of signs and cultural codes. The image of the javelin acts as a signifier for the exotic 'other', in this case it is reinforcing existing notions about power, identity and cultural difference during the height of colonialism.