General, Bavarian Infantry, Germany, 1886, from the Military Series (N224) issued by Kinney Tobacco Company to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1888

This chromolithograph from 1886, produced by the Kinney Tobacco Company, depicts a General of the Bavarian Infantry, showcasing symbols of authority and militarism. The most striking motif is the cross, prominently displayed on his chest as a medal. The cross, originally a symbol of religious faith and sacrifice, has undergone a fascinating transformation throughout history. From early Christian iconography to its adoption by military orders and nation-states, the cross has been reclaimed as a symbol of power, duty, and honor. Consider how the Swastika—another cross that can be traced to antiquity—became appropriated by Nazi Germany as a symbol of Aryan identity. Its significance evolved into a representation of racial purity and aggressive nationalism, deeply affecting collective memory. Note the general’s stern posture and commanding presence which evoke a complex mix of respect, fear, and national pride, and it shows us how symbols continue to shape and reflect our deepest cultural and psychological experiences. The recurrence and adaptation of symbols like the cross remind us of the cyclical nature of history, as motifs resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings across generations.