Tobacco Store Figure 1935 - 1942

Eugene Croe’s “Tobacco Store Figure” (1935–1942) is a watercolor on paper depicting a Native American figure standing on a pedestal with “Tobacco & Cigars” written on it. The figure, dressed in traditional attire and holding a bundle of cigars, is a classic example of a store figure, common in the early 20th century. The painting’s detailed depiction of the figure and the pedestal, along with Croe’s signature in the lower right corner, suggests that this is a design for a tobacco store figure. While not a traditional fine art painting, the work provides insight into the commercial art of the time and its use of imagery and symbolism to attract customers.