Artillery, Train, Germany, 1886, from the Military Series (N224) issued by Kinney Tobacco Company to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1888

Editor: Here we have “Artillery, Train, Germany, 1886,” a print and drawing from 1888, part of the Military Series produced by Kinney Tobacco Company. There's a certain stiffness to the figure, and the patterned background is visually quite strange, given the military subject. What do you make of this unusual piece? Curator: The stiffness you observe might be interpreted as a reflection of the rigid social structures and militaristic culture prevalent in Germany at that time. The image normalizes military values, reinforcing hegemonic masculinity. The patterned background, almost musical, subtly links the order of the military with broader social harmony – or perhaps a manufactured one. What purpose do you think the commercial context serves here? Editor: So you’re saying that this wasn't necessarily created for art's sake, but as propaganda? Curator: Propaganda is a strong word, but the card undoubtedly played a role in shaping public perception. By associating military imagery with a consumer product like cigarettes, Kinney Tobacco Company contributed to the normalization and even idealization of military service. These cards circulated widely, especially among young men, potentially influencing their aspirations and values. How do you feel about this blend of commerce and military ethos? Editor: It definitely makes me uneasy, especially considering the history of militarism in Germany. Seeing it tied to something as trivial as a cigarette card is disturbing. It’s like, who is this actually for and what's it trying to sell, really? Curator: Precisely! It highlights how seemingly innocuous everyday objects can be powerful tools in shaping cultural attitudes and perpetuating specific ideologies. The image offers insights into the complex intersections of militarism, consumer culture, and national identity in the late 19th century, urging critical reflection on how such systems continue to operate today. Editor: I hadn’t considered the underlying cultural messages so explicitly. This puts the artwork into a much clearer, if darker, context for me. Thanks!