Order of the Golden Spur, Holy See, from the World's Decorations series (N44) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1890

This chromolithograph of the Order of the Golden Spur was created by Allen & Ginter as part of the World's Decorations series. The composition centres on a brightly coloured medal against a muted background. This arrangement, combined with the textures, creates a viewing experience that is both visually engaging and formally intriguing. The image employs a semiotic system where the cross shape and the inscription ‘S. SIVESTER M’ convey meanings of religious authority and tradition. These are strategically positioned within the composition to create a hierarchy of symbols. The geometric arrangement of these signs, set against the decorative borders, not only frames the central motif but also challenges fixed notions of religious representation. Note the structure of this small print, where the interplay of vibrant colour and symbolic shapes serves to create a dialogue between the aesthetic and the ideological. This illustrates how even seemingly straightforward images can be rich sites of cultural and philosophical discourse.