Pavia Hussar, Spain, from the Military Uniforms series (T182) issued by Abdul Cigarettes 1881

This is a lithograph of a Pavia Hussar of Spain from the Military Uniforms series, produced by Abdul Cigarettes. The artist, Abdul Cigarettes, was founded in Dresden, Germany in 1881. This image speaks to the imperialist project of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. During this period, European powers extended their reach across the globe, driven by economic, political, and cultural ambitions. These cigarette cards, which were collected and traded, served as a visual shorthand, encapsulating the romanticism and perceived glory associated with military service and colonial expansion. The Pavia Hussar, with his ornate uniform and proud bearing, becomes a symbol of Spanish power. This imagery obscures the often brutal realities of colonial rule. Instead, it promotes a narrative of heroism and national pride. As you consider this image, reflect on how it might have shaped perceptions of both the colonizer and the colonized. Consider the emotional impact of such imagery, and its role in shaping cultural attitudes towards empire and identity.