Arms of the State of Massachusetts, from the Military Series (N224) issued by Kinney Tobacco Company to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1888

This colorful lithograph from 1888 depicts the official coat of arms for the state of Massachusetts. The design features a Native American holding a bow and arrow, with a gold star above him. The shield is surrounded by two ribbons with the state motto, "Ense petit placidam sub libertate quietem," which means, "By the sword we seek peace, but peace only under liberty." This card was part of a series created by Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company to promote their Sweet Caporal cigarettes. The artwork exemplifies the patriotic and historical themes popular in American advertising during the late 19th century. The design, created by the Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company, combines elements of traditional heraldry with a more whimsical style common to advertising during that period.