Portrait of woman, from the Novelties series (N228, Type 2) issued by Kinney Bros. 1889

This small portrait card was produced by the Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company as part of their Novelties series. These cards, popular in the late 19th century in the United States, offer a glimpse into the cultural values and commercial strategies of the time. Mass-produced and included in cigarette packs, these images served as promotional tools, enticing consumers with idealized representations of beauty and sophistication. The woman depicted embodies the era's aesthetic preferences, with her delicate features, and refined attire. However, it's important to acknowledge the social context in which these images circulated. The tobacco industry, fueled by exploitative labor practices, promoted products that had detrimental health effects. Moreover, the representation of women in these cards often reinforced narrow standards of beauty. Understanding the historical significance of artworks like this requires delving into archival materials, studying advertising trends, and examining the broader socio-economic forces at play. Through such investigations, we can unravel the complex layers of meaning embedded within seemingly innocuous images.