Uruguay, from Flags of All Nations, Series 1 (N9) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1887

This chromolithograph of Uruguay's flag was created by Allen & Ginter for their series of cigarette cards. The sun is a potent symbol, recurring across cultures as a representation of life, energy, and divinity. Here, we see two suns: one on the upper right corner of the flag, the other on the lower left corner of the card, rising from the horizon. The ‘Sun of May’ on the flag is a national emblem, commemorating the May Revolution of 1810, a pivotal moment in Argentina's independence. The radiant sun has ancient roots, from the Egyptian god Ra to Apollo in Greek mythology, embodying power and rebirth. This archetype appears in various guises throughout history, reflecting humanity's enduring fascination with its life-giving force. The flag's design evokes a sense of national pride and identity. The rising sun beneath the flag suggests hope, renewal, and the promise of a bright future for the nation. Symbols such as this one have a non-linear progression, resurfacing, evolving, and taking on new meanings in different historical contexts.