Hand mirror with dark frame, from the Novelties series (N122) issued by Gail & Ax Tobacco to promote Navy Long Cut 1889

This hand mirror, created in 1889 by Gail & Ax Tobacco as part of their Novelties series, is a prime example of trade cards used for advertising in the late 19th century. The image depicts a young woman, likely a model, looking at the viewer with a hint of a smile. The elaborate, ornate frame in gold and black creates a sense of luxury and refinement, associating the product, Navy Long Cut, with those qualities. This trade card is a reminder of the evolution of advertising techniques and their reliance on visual imagery to appeal to consumers.