Gustavus Adolphus Festival, Sweden, from the Holidays series (N80) for Duke brand cigarettes 1890

Editor: This chromolithograph from 1890 by W. Duke, Sons & Co. is titled "Gustavus Adolphus Festival, Sweden." It’s from a series of cigarette cards. The main figure looks almost regal, yet dreamy, with the battle scene floating above her. What strikes you when you look at it? Curator: It's a fascinating juxtaposition, isn’t it? This young woman, depicted in profile with what appears to be a folk costume and elaborate headwear, positioned directly beneath a scene of intense conflict. This image taps into layers of cultural memory. Consider Gustavus Adolphus, a Swedish king seen as a pivotal figure in Swedish history. What symbolic purpose do you think he serves in the national psyche? Editor: He was a military leader, right? So the battle imagery signifies Swedish power? Curator: Partly. He also represents a Protestant champion and a figure of national pride. This print connects to that deep-seated sense of identity and continuity. Even on a cigarette card, you see this layering of meaning. Think about the symbolism of her costume: the colours, patterns, and particularly that wreath upon her head. Editor: It feels connected to both pagan and Christian traditions, almost like a maypole celebration or a saint’s crown? Curator: Exactly! This weaving together of historical and cultural elements is key. We see a connection to the past and a kind of idealized representation of Swedish identity that endures through the centuries. How does that resonate with you, given its function as a cigarette card? Editor: It's surprising that a commercial product would tap into such deeply rooted symbols, but I guess it was a way to add value and meaning to something quite ordinary. I see how many cultural references can exist within one small drawing. Curator: Indeed, and it prompts us to examine how cultural identity is constructed and transmitted, even through seemingly trivial objects.