Monocle and Eye (blue), from Jocular Ocular series (N221) issued by Kinney Bros. 1889

"Monocle and Eye (blue)" was produced by Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company, circa 1899, as part of their "Jocular Ocular" series. These whimsical trade cards were distributed at a time when tobacco companies were major players in advertising, using collectible cards to boost sales. But beyond their commercial function, these images offer a glimpse into the cultural landscape of the late 19th century. The monocle, a symbol of upper-class sophistication, is juxtaposed with a somewhat cartoonish, blue eye, creating a playful tension between class and the human form. What does it mean to see, and who gets to do the seeing? The image raises questions about perception, identity, and the gaze. By playing with such symbols, the Kinney Brothers’ card invites us to consider the social dynamics embedded in something as seemingly simple as an eye.