A Boxer, from the Jokes series (N87) for Duke brand cigarettes 1890

Editor: This little print, "A Boxer" from 1890, is part of the "Jokes" series for Duke brand cigarettes. It looks like a drawing, maybe even a caricature. He's not what I imagine when I hear the word 'boxer' -- more like a carpenter, honestly. I'm curious, what do you make of the disconnect between the title and what's depicted? Curator: Ah, it’s that unexpected twist that makes it sing, isn't it? It's like finding a misplaced comma that changes the whole meaning of a sentence – or, you know, a hammer instead of boxing gloves. The humor’s in the visual pun, a delightful play on words that these cigarette cards often employed. These were mass-produced collectibles, small bursts of amusement tucked into packs, offering a momentary escape to working men. Think of it: did smoking offer its own way of getting knocked down? Editor: A momentary escape, that makes sense! Do you think it says anything about how society viewed physical labor then? Curator: Potentially! It gently pokes fun, perhaps at the expense of both the brute strength associated with boxing and the more “refined” expectations. Is it demeaning? Maybe a tiny bit. Is it also highlighting a type of labor not typically glorified? Possibly! It's a little sardonic grin from a bygone era when everything felt simpler—though I doubt it actually was. Did *we* feel duped or humored by this trick? I wonder... Editor: I guess humor's always evolving. Thanks, that really helps put the artwork in perspective for me. Curator: My pleasure. Remember, art often whispers secrets. We just have to lean in and listen to hear how our past envisioned both humor, sport, and work.