Portrait of woman, from the Novelties series (N228, Type 2) issued by Kinney Bros. 1889

This is a portrait of a woman from the Novelties series, created by Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company. Note the circular format and the delicate lithographic technique. The design elements are constrained within this small, almost coin-like space. Consider how the artist uses composition to frame the subject. The woman is positioned off-center, gazing to the left, which creates a dynamic tension within the circular boundary. Her form is softly rendered, with attention to the texture of her hair and the gentle folds of her dress. The color palette is muted, dominated by pastel shades that evoke a sense of nostalgia. The serial nature of this work is striking; it reflects a shift towards mass production. Each card is a signifier, not just of an individual, but also of a broader cultural moment. The image is both a portrait and a commodity, blurring the lines between art and advertising. The circular format itself, suggests ideas of unity and enclosure, inviting us to consider how such forms shape our perception.