English Setter, from the Dogs of the World series for Old Judge Cigarettes 1890

This is a collectible card of an English Setter, printed by Goodwin & Company for Old Judge Cigarettes sometime between 1850 and 1950. These cards were originally included in cigarette packs as a marketing tactic, capitalizing on the popularity of collecting at the time. The Dogs of the World series offers a glimpse into the cultural values of the period, including class distinctions, leisure activities, and the human relationship to animals. The English Setter, a breed associated with the upper classes, symbolizes status and privilege, while the act of collecting reflects the social stratification of the time. The idealized image of the dog speaks to the power dynamics inherent in selective breeding. The card evokes a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era, and is a quaint reminder of the intersections between commerce, culture, and identity.