Subject: Orientalism

A colored business card depicting an Oriental scene. The card indicates a business located at 2045 Ridge Avenue. The card is estimated to date from circa 1885. The card is part of the O collection within the Manuscript/Mixed Material collection of the library.

This trade card, printed on pink stock, advertises Morris Gross's children's department. The front of the card features an Orientalist-style illustration, which is a common artistic style in this period but is considered problematic today due to its stereotypical and racist depictions of Asian people and cultures. The illustration is a visual element that needs to be understood within its historical context. Below the illustration, the card provides two addresses: #336 & #338 River St. and 13, 15, 17 4th St., Troy. The name "Willie Bragg" is also visible on the card; it is unclear what his relationship to the business was. The back of the card is blank.

Trade card featuring an oriental motif on the front and a blank reverse. The card is blue card stock. The card is circa 1885. The address 360 Main Street is visible on the card. The card is from Arc.MS.56, Volume 9, Page 18.