[Wilde, Oscar. (1854–1900)]
Original Cigar Trade Card
Original Straiton and Storms Cigars trade card featuring an illustration of Oscar Wilde, ca. 1880's. Wilde is pictured in a typically aesthetic outfit and pose with a flower, beside a text reading: "Straiton and Storms / New Cigars / Aesthetic / Sun-Flower / Too Too / Capadura Patience / Dealers supplied by R. C. Brown & Co, New York." Mounting remnants on the verso; light edge wear. 3.25 x 5.75 inches.Wilde first came to America on a lecture tour arranged by the English impresario, Richard d'Oyly Carte (of Gilbert and Sullivan fame), arriving on the SS Arizona on January 3rd, 1882 and famously informing customs officials, "I have nothing to declare except my genius." On a grueling schedule, Wilde lectured in a new town every few days and though the tour was originally planned to last four months, it was continued for over a year. He lectured on topics relating to the Aesthetic Movement including "The English Renaissance," "The Decorative Arts," and "The House Beautiful."
Though his press reception was hostile, Wilde was popular with audiences, and inspired many publications and trade items such as this cigar card. Here, the high-end cigar Capadura is promoted by association with Wilde's stylized and aesthetic image. (14948)
Ephemera Literature