H.R.H. Duke of Connaught, from the Racing Colors of the World series (N22b) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

Curator: Let's explore this small print titled "H.R.H. Duke of Connaught, from the Racing Colors of the World series," produced in 1888 by Allen & Ginter. Editor: It has a certain charming flatness. The pose seems intentionally awkward, as if capturing a fleeting moment rather than a posed portrait. There is something disarming about the overall composition. Curator: Allen & Ginter were cigarette manufacturers who included these cards in their packs. The image itself is a coloured pencil drawing, reproduced as a print, portraying Prince Arthur, the Duke of Connaught, in his racing attire. Editor: Context is key here; its production as a piece of tobacco advertising raises several points about cultural representation and consumption during the late 19th century. This elevates and trivializes the image of royalty for the masses. I find the composition slightly unsettling because it mimics Ukiyo-e prints—Japanese woodblock prints that would have likely been heavily mediated to the public in 1888—a choice, I think, reveals an appropriation of the Japanese aesthetic. Curator: Note the detail in rendering the racing colors. The contrasting dark green and lighter stripes demonstrate sophisticated modulation. The pose emphasizes the hands, gently suggesting aristocratic restraint through a carefully controlled design. It embodies visual elegance through subtle and precise craftsmanship, particularly in the cross-hatching on his coat that infuses it with subtle textural interest. Editor: But what message did this send? Placing the Duke's image on a cheap cigarette card surely played into a broader power dynamic. Allen & Ginter commodified the image of royalty to sell its product, thus cementing social hierarchy into the act of consumerism. I find myself curious to consider what the Duke might have thought! Curator: The interplay between colors and the delicate linework form a compelling example of academic portraiture filtered through the lens of popular commercial art. This results in visual allure and underscores the enduring human fascination with refinement and grace. Editor: Indeed. Reflecting on its impact on consumers exposes hidden facets of Victorian societal ambition and consumption. Curator: Analyzing this tiny print allows us a broader understanding of beauty through commercial lenses. Editor: Precisely—it serves as a critical case study of image construction and consumption during a pivotal moment in history.