Italia, Italian Navy, from the Naval Vessels of the World series (N226) issued by Kinney Bros. 1889

This chromolithograph of the Italia of the Italian Navy, part of the Naval Vessels of the World series, was produced by Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company. Notice how the composition divides the scene, with the imposing warship set against a backdrop of sky and sea. The vessel, rendered in shades of gray and black, displays a structured form. The artist uses a combination of vertical and horizontal lines to convey its scale and functionality. Red accents add visual interest, drawing the eye along the ship's hull. The flag is not just a symbol of national identity; it's an element within the composition, injecting color and movement. The curl in the upper right hints at a dynamic interplay between image and text. The title block appears as if peeled back, revealing a dimension within the print. This destabilizes the surface. The print's composition and color palette reflect a moment in history, capturing the interplay between nationhood and the burgeoning world of mass media and visual culture.