Count W. Kaunitz, from the Racing Colors of the World series (N22a) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

Editor: This is "Count W. Kaunitz, from the Racing Colors of the World series," made around 1888 by Allen & Ginter. It's a colored pencil drawing, part of a print series that feels a bit like an early form of trading cards. I’m immediately struck by the slightly humorous tone. It's a portrait, but almost a caricature. What's your take? Curator: It's wonderfully whimsical, isn’t it? To me, it’s a little window into the Gilded Age’s obsession with all things worldly and fashionable. Cigarette cards were a curious phenomenon; collectible, tradeable, and oddly educational! Look at how the artist has captured the Count’s racing silks – do you notice the level of detail, almost a photographic precision applied to something so ephemeral? It’s an interesting contrast, wouldn't you agree? Editor: I see what you mean! It’s funny to think of a cigarette company documenting “Racing Colors of the World.” It makes the racing world feel almost…commercialized, even back then? I also notice how he doesn't exactly emanate confidence! Is that meant to suggest something about this particular count? Curator: Perhaps! Or perhaps it speaks to a wider commentary on status and image. Think about it - were these images meant to inform, or were they really meant to sell an aspiration? To buy into a world of perceived luxury and international glamour. In this light, would it even matter if the sitter looked less-than-princely? It gives me pause… Editor: Wow, that’s fascinating – reframing it as selling an aspiration, not just showing off the “Racing Colors.” It really does change how you read the image. Curator: Exactly. What began as a seemingly innocent portrait suddenly feels layered with cultural and economic nuances. It is why history of art keeps me perpetually captivated and challenged, hoping, with you, to explore these perspectives. Editor: That's given me a lot to consider! I definitely see more to this little portrait card than I initially thought. Curator: Me too! Another card checked off my ever growing to-examine stack! Thanks for joining me on this artistic jaunt!