Julius Barre, from the Sea Captains series (N127) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Honest Long Cut Tobacco 1887

This promotional card for Honest Long Cut Tobacco, made by W. Duke Sons & Co. between 1870 and 1920, features Julius Barre of the North German Lloyd. Dominating the background is a flag bearing an anchor entwined with foliage. The anchor, a symbol of hope and steadfastness, has ancient roots, appearing in early Christian art as a veiled cross, offering solace amidst life's storms. Yet, here, it’s intertwined with laurel, a classical symbol of victory and status, a potent blend of maritime hope and earthly achievement. The juxtaposition of the anchor and laurel is not unique; we observe this recurring motif throughout history, each time subtly altered by the prevailing cultural winds. Consider how such symbols persist, transformed yet recognizable, echoing through time, reflecting our collective, perhaps subconscious, yearning for stability and triumph. This potent combination engages us on a primal level, stirring deep-seated emotions and memories. The human desire to overcome chaos resurfaces, evolving, and taking on new meanings in different historical contexts.