Yorkshire, from the Dogs of the World series for Old Judge Cigarettes 1890

Curator: This small print from around 1890, "Yorkshire, from the Dogs of the World series for Old Judge Cigarettes," depicts a Yorkshire Terrier in coloured pencil. It’s currently housed here at the Met. Editor: My immediate impression is of a study in texture, specifically fur. Note how the artist renders the long, silky coat. The use of colored pencil allows for a remarkable variation of tones and shading that capture the silky feel. Curator: Indeed. These types of illustrations were distributed as trade cards by the Goodwin & Company tobacco firm. The cards, like this one, served a dual purpose: advertising and collectability. They reveal much about popular culture and class aspirations during the late 19th century. Editor: It’s interesting that the background is so minimal; almost a blank canvas with delicate strokes. This directs the viewer's focus entirely onto the animal's form and elaborate coat. The almost impressionistic mark-making captures the dynamism of the dog, in spite of the still pose. Curator: Exactly. Dogs were potent symbols of status and companionship at the time, which explains why cigarette companies capitalized on this affinity by associating their brands with these images. Each card became a miniature representation of affluence. Owning such a dog and even collecting its picture signified belonging to a specific social echelon. Editor: If you study the individual lines closely, you find very assured craftsmanship at play. There is an almost calligraphic quality to some of the linework. Consider, for instance, the variation and directionality in the pencil strokes—capturing the sheen and texture in a very concise way. Curator: So the cards reflect a carefully constructed social world mediated through both commodity and image. Think of them as the Instagram of their era, showing idealized images of people, places and… pets! Editor: It does remind us that even in something as functional as promotional material, attention to form can truly elevate a simple thing to something timelessly fascinating. Curator: I agree; it serves as a tiny snapshot of complex cultural currents.