"Get off there! Do you think I'm a feather bed?," from the Terrors of America set (N136) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Honest Long Cut Tobacco 1888 - 1889

This small lithograph was made by W. Duke, Sons & Co. in the United States to promote Honest Long Cut Tobacco in the late 19th century. It presents a humorous scene of a man being unwillingly used as a sled by another, seemingly younger, figure. The "Terrors of America" series used humor to connect with consumers. These promotional cards were essentially a form of advertising, and they offer us a glimpse into the cultural values and anxieties of the time. The depicted scene touches on themes of social relations, perhaps reflecting generational tensions or class differences through its visual codes. By humorously exaggerating everyday scenarios, the company aimed to create a memorable association with its product. To fully understand this image, one might research advertising strategies of the late 19th century, as well as social dynamics of the period. It is crucial to analyze the image within its specific historical, social, and institutional context, where even a simple promotional item can reveal complex aspects of culture and commerce.