President Diaz of Mexico, from the Rulers, Flags, and Coats of Arms series (N126-1) issued by W. Duke, Sons & Co. 1888

Curator: This little card, "President Diaz of Mexico," printed in 1888 by W. Duke, Sons & Co., it’s quite a fascinating object. It reminds me of those old baseball cards, just bursting with symbolism. Editor: Right! I'm drawn to its somewhat humorous depiction. I notice the flag, the coat of arms, the gentleman rider… but Diaz himself seems so stiff. Almost like a caricature, in a way. What's your take on it? Curator: It's interesting you say "stiff". He certainly is presented formally! Yet, observe how everything is so neatly compartmentalized: Diaz, the flag, a horseman – as if presenting various aspects of Mexican identity. It almost feels… promotional. This card was part of a larger series included with tobacco products. Do you think its goal might be educational, to introduce different rulers to American consumers, or perhaps simply exoticize them to boost sales? Editor: Promotional makes sense, actually! Tobacco card… Huh. I hadn’t thought about the capitalist side of it all. I guess it's easy to see these old things through rose-tinted glasses. But did these cards influence the public’s view of Diaz or even Mexico in any way? Curator: Now there’s a question for the ages! It would be interesting to investigate if and how these images shaped public perception. Perhaps creating, reinforcing, or even subtly subverting existing stereotypes... a tiny image holding so much cultural weight! Food for thought, isn't it? Editor: Definitely gives you a different lens to view it through! This wasn’t just a portrait, but an ad… loaded with context and agenda! Thanks!