Wishing You a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, from the New Years 1890 series (N227) issued by Kinney Bros. 1889 - 1890

This small chromolithograph, "Wishing You a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year," from the New Years 1890 series, was issued by Kinney Bros. Two figures, likely performers, dominate the composition with their elaborate costumes and expressions. The figure on the left, in vibrant reds and golds, has an open mouth as though singing. To the right, the second figure in softer yellows and browns holds up a sign. The positioning of these figures creates a fascinating interplay of gazes and gestures. The theatrical garb and presentation invite us to consider how constructed identities and performances shape our understanding of festive greetings. Consider the flatness of the figures against the speckled off-white background. There is a destabilization of depth and perspective. This formal choice prompts questions about the nature of representation itself. Despite its small scale, the print encourages us to consider the cultural codes embedded in visual imagery and how they contribute to broader social narratives.