Battle Axe, from the Arms of All Nations series (N3) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1887

"Battle Axe" comes from a series of collectible cards produced by Allen & Ginter Cigarettes. These cards, tiny windows into the late 19th century, reflect a nation grappling with its identity after the Civil War. The image depicts a medieval knight raising his battle axe in a triumphant gesture. Consider how this idealized, romanticized image of European chivalry might have resonated with a country seeking to define its own heroic narratives. Note the deliberate choice of the artist to illustrate strength and honor with the figure of a white, male, medieval warrior. What cultural values did this character embody, and whose stories were marginalized by this representation? As we gaze upon this small card, let's consider the relationship between commerce, national identity, and the stories we choose to tell ourselves. This image is not just a battle axe, it's a carefully constructed narrative, one that both reflects and shapes societal values.