Sculptor, from the Occupations of Women series (N502) for Frishmuth's Tobacco Company 1889

This small commercial card titled "Sculptor" was part of Frishmuth's Tobacco Company's "Occupations of Women series." These cards offer us a fascinating glimpse into the evolving roles of women at a time of immense social change. The image presents a woman, dressed in what appears to be an art smock, standing confidently with one foot forward, while she carefully carves a small sculpture. The very depiction of a woman engaged in sculpture, an art form historically dominated by men, challenges traditional gender roles. While the card could be seen as progressive, it’s worth noting the tension between empowerment and objectification, given that it was produced to sell tobacco products. Here we see the complicated intersections of labor, gender, and commerce at the turn of the century. It reminds us to consider the complex ways in which images both reflect and shape societal norms, all while appealing to our desires and aspirations.