Grover Cleveland of New York, from the Presidential Possibilities series (N124) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Honest Long Cut Tobacco 1888

This small card, printed by W. Duke, Sons & Co., presents Grover Cleveland, a 'Presidential Possibility,' to promote Honest Long Cut Tobacco. What do we see in this image that transcends mere political promotion? Consider Cleveland's gaze. It looks into the distance with a resolved expression. This is not unique to Cleveland. Throughout history, leaders have been portrayed looking afar, embodying foresight and vision. Consider Roman emperors depicted with a similar unwavering gaze, symbols of their ambition and power. This image speaks not only to Cleveland's aspirations, but also to our collective desire for leadership that sees beyond the immediate, a leader who embodies strength. This card taps into the archetypal image of a strong leader. This symbol has a cyclical progression, a return to the classical, a way of conveying power and authority that resonates across time.