Lottie Maroder, from the Actresses series (N245) issued by Kinney Brothers to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1890

This promotional card from the Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company features Lottie Maroder, an actress whose gaze meets ours. The floral brooch she wears echoes motifs seen throughout art history. From ancient Greek depictions of goddesses adorned with floral wreaths to Renaissance portraits where flowers symbolize virtue and beauty, we find a recurring fascination with these natural forms. Here, this jewel is not merely decorative; it serves as a visual echo, linking Maroder to a lineage of celebrated women in art. Such symbols resonate deeply, evoking a collective memory that transcends time. This brooch connects to a shared cultural consciousness of beauty and femininity, prompting an emotional response rooted in our subconscious. It's a testament to the enduring power of images to evoke profound emotional states, engaging viewers across generations.