Sara Jewett, from World's Beauties, Series 2 (N27) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

This is a chromolithograph of Sara Jewett, part of the "World's Beauties" series, created by Allen & Ginter for their cigarettes. The small card is dominated by a portrait of Jewett in profile, set against a softly textured background. The composition is straightforward, but the visual elements are carefully considered. The texture of the background, achieved through fine, radiating lines, contrasts with the smooth rendering of Jewett's face and clothing. This contrast draws the viewer's eye to her figure, highlighting the delicacy of her features and the intricate detail of her dress. The act of placing her portrait on a cigarette card raises questions about the commodification of beauty and the objectification of women within consumer culture. This tension—between the artistic depiction and its commercial purpose—destabilizes traditional notions of art and value. It leaves us contemplating the complex interplay between art, commerce, and representation.