Portrait of woman, from the Novelties series (N228, Type 2) issued by Kinney Bros. 1889

This late 19th-century chromolithograph by Kinney Bros. Tobacco Company presents a round portrait of a woman, adorned with symbols that speak volumes. The circular frame itself is a potent emblem, echoing the Renaissance "tondo", symbolizing perfection and eternity. But here, it's reproduced on a minuscule scale. This immediately brings to mind the tradition of cameo portraits that emphasize the sitter's beauty. Yet, in the context of commercial tobacco cards, such classical motifs were often appropriated, transforming the high art symbolism into objects of mass appeal. The woman's gaze, direct and unblinking, suggests a connection, while her elegant dress hints at refinement. The subtle color palette exudes a calm, serene mood, perhaps intended to evoke a sense of pleasure and satisfaction akin to the smoking experience. These images capture a complex interplay between tradition and modernity, where ancient symbols are repackaged and circulated to new audiences, reflecting and shaping the cultural values of their time.