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

Editor: This is "Governor Oglesby, Illinois" from the "Governors, Arms, Etc." series by W. Duke, Sons & Co., dating back to between 1885 and 1892. It looks like a colored-pencil drawing, maybe used for a print? It’s interesting seeing a politician immortalized on what appears to be a trading card! What catches your eye about it? Curator: Oh, this takes me back! It's like stepping into a time capsule. What I find truly fascinating is how it encapsulates the late 19th-century's infatuation with progress and civic pride. You've got your governor, of course, but nestled beside him are symbols of Illinois's identity, industry, and aspirations. Notice the state coat of arms right next to the smokestacks of Chicago's grain elevators...a deliberate pairing, wouldn't you say? What story do you think this portrait is trying to tell about Governor Oglesby? Editor: It almost feels like a triptych, with those distinct panels of symbolism. Perhaps the artist wanted to show Oglesby as both a leader of the people *and* a champion of Illinois's booming economy. The flag for Chicago Sport Club right next to the portrait seems…unexpected, though! Curator: Unexpected, maybe. And all held together by a border that gives it this commercial packaging vibe – which makes sense, given its origins as a trading card! It's a reminder that even our leaders can become brands. Now, how do you think knowing this was printed to be collected changes our interpretation of it? Does that commodification affect our reading? Editor: That's a thought-provoking question. Seeing it as a collectible certainly cheapens the idea of honoring leadership. But I now see it provides a snapshot of the values that were being celebrated at the time. Curator: Absolutely! It’s a fun reminder that art doesn't always hang in hallowed halls.