Charles H. Jones, Jacksonville Times Union, from the American Editors series (N35) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1887

This lithograph of Charles H. Jones, Jacksonville Times Union, was created by Allen & Ginter for a series of American editors. The palm tree is a striking symbol within this piece, set against the radiant Florida coast. The palm, historically a symbol of victory and eternal life in ancient cultures, reappears in Christian iconography to represent martyrdom and spiritual triumph. Consider the Ishtar Gate of Babylon, where stylized palms denote power and abundance, or their presence in Roman art symbolizing conquered lands. Over time, the palm has traversed continents and belief systems, adapting to new cultural landscapes while retaining echoes of its original significance. The setting sun infuses the image with warmth, inviting viewers to experience a deep connection to the emotional and symbolic power embedded in the landscape. As the palm moves through time, it connects us to universal themes of resilience, transformation, and the cyclical nature of existence.