Monocle and Eye (blue), from Jocular Ocular series (N221) issued by Kinney Bros. 1889

This is a promotional lithograph titled "Monocle and Eye (blue)" from the Jocular Ocular series, created in 1869 by the Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company. The design is dominated by a large, stylized eye rendered in shades of blue and flesh tones, encased within a blue-rimmed monocle. The composition immediately draws attention to the gaze, a focal point enhanced by the circular frame. This tight framing not only isolates the eye but also intensifies its visual impact, turning it into a spectacle of observation. The cool blues of the iris contrast with the warmer tones of the surrounding skin, creating a dynamic tension that animates the image. This interplay challenges conventional portraiture by focusing on a single feature, suggesting a deeper engagement with themes of perception. The deliberate framing and exaggerated scale prompt questions about how we perceive and interpret visual information. This playful yet pointed commentary ensures that the artwork remains a relevant exploration of sight, representation, and the cultural codes that shape our understanding.