Steamship State of Texas, Mallory Line, from the Ocean and River Steamers series (N83) for Duke brand cigarettes 1887

"Steamship State of Texas, Mallory Line" is a trade card from the "Ocean and River Steamers" series created in 1887 for Duke brand cigarettes. The artwork features a detailed depiction of the steamship "State of Texas" with its masts and sails fully extended. The vessel is shown against a backdrop of a light blue sky with hints of orange and red in the clouds, suggesting a sunset. In the foreground, a woman with blonde hair is shown bowing her head in respect, with the American flag in the foreground and a second flag in the background. These trade cards were a popular method of advertising in the late 19th century, and they often featured images of popular landmarks, ships, and other subjects of interest to the public.