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

This small, round portrait of a woman was part of a series of collectible cards issued by Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company. These cards, like many others from the late 19th century, offered a glimpse into the cultural values and ideals of the time. Here, we see a woman with delicate features and elaborate golden hair, a representation of feminine beauty that was highly valued in the Victorian era. But consider how these images functioned within a larger social context. They were distributed by a tobacco company, which raises questions about the commodification of both the female image and the addictive substances being sold. These cards were essentially advertisements, subtly shaping perceptions of beauty, desire, and worth. They served to reinforce gender roles, and the male gaze, while contributing to the normalization of tobacco consumption. It's a reminder of how deeply intertwined art, commerce, and societal values can be, and prompts us to consider the messages embedded within even the most seemingly innocuous images.