Vermont, from Flags of the States and Territories (N11) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1888

Editor: This is "Vermont, from Flags of the States and Territories," created in 1888 by Allen & Ginter. It’s a watercolor print, part of a series made for cigarette cards, currently held at the Met. It’s interesting how a symbol of a state can be reduced to something so small. What strikes you about the imagery? Curator: It's fascinating to see how symbols of place are intentionally arranged and miniaturized to fit within a consumable product. Notice the escutcheon displaying a lone pine, some agricultural stacks, and grazing cattle above the motto "Freedom and Unity." What do these symbols communicate to you? Editor: Well, it speaks of Vermont's natural resources and values: forests, agriculture, and of course, the emphasis on freedom. It’s pretty straightforward, or… is there something else I’m missing? Curator: Consider how these symbols function. The deer head, for instance, is interesting, isn't it? Deer represent wilderness, watchfulness and are often related to ideas of spiritual authority or sovereignty. The symbolism aims to condense the state’s identity into potent emblems to instill brand loyalty and reflect an ideal. These curated images reinforced cultural memories and values associated with specific locations for consumers far removed from the actual landscapes. What emotions does the combination evoke? Editor: It makes me think of how marketing manipulates cultural values for consumption. And now, seeing that deer head in the context of tobacco consumption and early commercial branding practices changes its impact for me. Curator: Exactly. The symbols, in conjunction with each other and the brand, shift. I never considered that either! Editor: Looking at this piece has definitely expanded my understanding of how symbols and commerce intertwine. It makes me think about the images on product packaging now.