Advance, from the Parasol Drills series (N18) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1888

This chromolithograph, designed for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes, presents a fashionable woman holding a parasol. The parasol, initially a symbol of status and protection from the sun, has a rich history across cultures. Consider its evolution: In ancient Egypt, parasols signified royalty, while in Asia, they represented dignity and power. Here, in this advertisement, the parasol is transformed. It is no longer merely a shield but an emblem of modernity and feminine grace. The woman’s confident gaze and fashionable attire suggest a departure from traditional roles. This transformation echoes in other cultural artifacts, like Klimt’s portraits, where similar accessories denote sophistication and independence. It’s a curious dance of symbols. The parasol, once a static emblem of authority, now embodies a dynamic shift in societal perceptions of women. It resurfaces, evolves, and takes on new meanings, reflecting the ever-changing currents of history and culture.