G.C. Goodwin, The Salt Lake City Tribune, from the American Editors series (N1) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1887

This small chromolithograph, part of Allen & Ginter's "American Editors" series, presents G.C. Goodwin of The Salt Lake City Tribune. The profile view, a common trope in portraiture, is reminiscent of ancient Roman busts. Here, the profile is not just a physical likeness; it suggests the weight of responsibility and authority that comes with leading a major newspaper. Consider how a similar profile view appears on coins and medals throughout history, from emperors to presidents—each a symbol of power. Goodwin’s assured gaze invites us to consider the evolving role of the press and the transmission of knowledge. This symbol of authority is not fixed but always in flux, as society and its media evolve, and the psychological impact of such imagery speaks to our innate desire for guidance. These images leave an indelible mark on our collective memory, resurfacing in unexpected ways as we grapple with new forms of communication.