Cigar Store Indian c. 1938

Lucille Lacoursiere rendered this image of a Cigar Store Indian in watercolor. We can consider it in the context of the history of representation and commercialism. These figures, mass-produced and placed outside tobacconists across 19th century America, were designed to attract customers by associating their products with the image of the ‘Native American’. Through visual codes, cultural references, and historical associations, the figures promoted both the romantic idea of the ‘noble savage’ and the colonial narrative of conquest. At the same time, the appropriation of Native American imagery for commercial purposes reflects the economic structures that allowed for the exploitation of Native American lands and resources. This is not necessarily a conservative statement, but rather, a reflection of existing cultural trends and power dynamics. The image, as a historical object, invites us to research further, delving into archives and collections for similar examples of cultural appropriation and commercial imagery. By understanding these histories, we can develop a more critical perspective on the role of images in shaping social and cultural norms.