Governor Sawyer, New Hampshire, from "Governors, Arms, Etc." series (N133-1), issued by Duke Sons & Co. 1885 - 1892

Editor: This is "Governor Sawyer, New Hampshire," from the "Governors, Arms, Etc." series, made sometime between 1885 and 1892 by W. Duke, Sons & Co. It seems to be a colored-pencil drawing reproduced as a print. The layout is quite interesting – three distinct panels. What sort of symbolic language can we unpack here? Curator: Immediately, the composition speaks to the construction of identity, especially within a political context. Look at how the portrait is framed by symbols of New Hampshire: its coat of arms with a rising sun and ship, the profile of the "Old Man of the Mountains," and, contrasting to these provincial images, the flag of a Vice Admiral, U.S. Navy. Consider also that this image comes from a tobacco company – "Honest Long Cut". Editor: So, are you suggesting a sort of layered symbolism? Local pride combined with national allegiance, and then commodified through tobacco? Curator: Precisely! Each element carries weight. The "Old Man of the Mountains," a well-known natural landmark, evokes ideas of resilience and permanence, and by implication, reliability of the product. But notice the almost ghostly face within the rock. What memories and emotions do such fleeting images inspire? What feelings is Duke selling through this portrait and how do they connect to New Hampshire in particular? Editor: That's fascinating. I hadn't considered how much the natural landmarks contributed to the symbolism. It's like a shorthand for the state’s character. Curator: Think about cultural memory – how these symbols trigger associations and emotions. The Vice Admiral’s flag speaks to a different type of strength and pride; maritime power and national defense in an emerging country. Editor: I guess it’s much more complex than just a simple portrait. Curator: Indeed. These images aren't simply representations; they're cultural artifacts loaded with meaning. It helps to explore the social, historical, and psychological factors to discover them.