Capitol of Texas in Austin, from the General Government and State Capitol Buildings series (N14) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1889

This small chromolithograph, a cigarette card from the late 19th century by Allen & Ginter, captures the Capitol of Texas in Austin. The building's dominant feature is its imposing dome, a symbol of power and stability. This dome is not merely an architectural element; it's a motif that resonates through history. Think of the Pantheon in Rome, its oculus open to the heavens, or the Duomo in Florence, each a testament to human ingenuity and aspiration. Here, in Texas, the dome echoes these precedents, embodying democratic ideals. Yet, consider how the symbolism evolves. Originally a feature of religious architecture, the dome then becomes a marker of imperial authority, later finding its place in civic buildings. This shift reflects a collective yearning for order and permanence. This card presents, in miniature form, a powerful emblem of statehood that touches our deepest, subconscious appreciation for historical continuity.