1889 Kinney Bros. N225 “National Dances” A Colorful Tour of World Cultures

The late 19th century was a golden era for theatrical, culturally themed tobacco cards, and few sets capture that spirit as vividly as the 1889 Kinney Brothers N225 “National Dances.” This series is a bright, ornate celebration of traditional dances from around the world — part ethnographic curiosity, part stage-like illustration, and entirely anchored in the chromolithographic charm of the period.

With detailed costumes, lively poses, and scenic backdrops, the N225 cards read like miniature posters for a world-tour performance. They offered smokers of the era a look into far-off traditions at a time when global travel was limited and cultural knowledge was filtered through books, exhibitions, and lavish illustrations. Today, these cards remain a favorite among collectors who appreciate sets that blend history, costume, and artistry.

The set’s style is unmistakably Victorian: bold borders, lush colors, and dramatic compositions. Each card presents a dancer (or dancers) in mid-movement, frozen in a moment that attempts to reflect the character of the dance itself. While not always entirely accurate in the anthropological sense, the illustrations reflect the late-1800s fascination with “world cultures” and performance imagery. As a collectible, N225 offers both visual richness and an intriguing look at how cultures were interpreted through the lens of the time.

Spotlight: The “War Dance” Card (Native American / Indian)

Among the standout cards in the series is the “War Dance,” depicting a Native American dancer in traditional regalia. The artwork emphasizes motion — raised arms, flowing garments, and the energetic posture of someone engaged in a ceremonial display. The illustrator leans into a dynamic composition: feathers, beadwork, and weaponry arranged to highlight rhythm and intensity.

For collectors today, this card is one of the most visually dramatic in the set. It also carries added historical significance, representing both the artistic conventions of the 1880s and the era’s interest in Indigenous culture as filtered through popular imagery. While stylized, it remains a striking example of how tobacco cards portrayed ceremonial dance and remains a favorite piece for those drawn to Native American themes within 19th-century ephemera.

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