Lancer, Spain, 1853, from the Military Series (N224) issued by Kinney Tobacco Company to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1888

This chromolithograph, “Lancer, Spain, 1853,” was created by the Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company in 1888 as part of their “Military Series” of trading cards promoting Sweet Caporal cigarettes. This particular card depicts a lancer, a type of cavalryman, in his full military uniform. The artwork, which is housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a prime example of the “trade card” genre and has been appreciated by art enthusiasts and collectors of Americana. It is a testament to the artistic and promotional practices of the late 19th century.