Battle of Sedan, Germany, from the Holidays series (N80) for Duke brand cigarettes 1890

This small chromolithograph was produced by W. Duke, Sons & Co., sometime between 1870 and 1920, as a promotional item included in packages of Duke brand cigarettes. The color printing technique was developed to meet the growing demands of advertising in the late 19th century. Chromolithography allowed for mass production of colorful images, making advertising more appealing and accessible to consumers. This print likely began with an original painting or illustration, which was then transferred to multiple limestone blocks. Each block was responsible for printing a different color, and when layered together, they created the final image. The card shows the Battle of Sedan, likely chosen for its historical significance and patriotic appeal to German consumers. The mass production of such images speaks volumes about the industrialization of art and its integration into the fabric of everyday life. By understanding the materials, making, and context of this small print, we gain insight into the cultural and economic forces that shaped its creation.