Capitol of New Hampshire in Concord, from the General Government and State Capitol Buildings series (N14) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1889

Editor: Here we have "Capitol of New Hampshire in Concord," created around 1889 by Allen & Ginter, using watercolor, colored pencil, and print techniques. The building is framed by trees, and the light makes it look a little ethereal. What catches your eye most in this work? Curator: I see a deliberate arrangement of symbols, how the trees, while framing the capitol building, also appear to guard it. Notice the golden eagle atop the dome – a national emblem representing power and freedom. The artist is presenting not just a building, but an idea, an ideal of governance watched over by nature and held up by national pride. It evokes a sense of civic duty. Does this resonate with you at all? Editor: Absolutely. The imposing architecture combined with the somewhat dreamy, Impressionistic style definitely creates that feeling of importance and tradition, but also something slightly removed from reality. Curator: Consider the cigarette card format. This artwork circulated widely, embedding these symbols of American identity into everyday life. The soft, impressionistic rendering might be less about precise architectural detail and more about evoking a feeling, a memory of stability and progress. Editor: That makes a lot of sense! It’s interesting how the symbolism can be so carefully constructed, even within what seems like a simple landscape. Curator: Indeed, it prompts one to question: What cultural memories were the creators trying to instill, and what continuities did they hope to project into the future? What happens when these icons become mass produced? What does that mean for how a country views itself? Editor: This has completely changed how I look at it. Thanks for pointing out these layers. Curator: My pleasure. It's a reminder that even the most unassuming image can hold deep cultural significance.