Showing posts with label tobacciana. Show all posts
Showing posts with label tobacciana. Show all posts

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Setting A Mood: The Use of Smoke in Art


AttributionNo Derivative Works Some rights reserved by phphoto2010
Health concerns aside, the image of a person smoking always sets a mood. You see a feeling... you feel something tangible, often in a way you wouldn't if the smoke wasn't there, if the person wasn't obviously taking a time-out from his or her moment to reflect in a way a smoker does.

The smoke itself is part of the mood. It wafts and creates an otherworldly mist that seems to imply something more mysterious to the viewer.  No matter what you feel about smoking, and I will not argue the merits, the use of the cigarette in art, or the presence of smoke in a photo, is... well, mood- capturing.

Check out the examples below... what do you think?

Attribution Some rights reserved by Tela Chhe

Attribution Some rights reserved by JOE-3PO


Attribution Some rights reserved by Jayel Aheram

Tuesday, September 10, 2013

Tobacciana: Hate the "Playa" Not the "Game"


from: .darkroastedblend.com
Tobacciana is a fancy way of saying tobacco and cigarette related antiques and collectibles, and it's a growing field of interest.   No matter if you are a current smoker, a past smoker or never took a puff, the culture of smoking and the art and style of its advertising and delivery interests everyone from art collectors to vintage toy enthusiasts.

Not only are Tobacciana items colorful, and can be highly valuable, they can also tell us a lot about our society and the history of the growth of the United States, and other countries.  No one can deny that tobacco has played a part in nearly every culture in some way since recorded history. For rituals, trade or industry, tobacco and all the things that revolve around it means ample opportunities for a collectors niche.

If you are looking to start a collection in the Tobacciana realm you can find something to fit in your budget.  Early advertising posters can get you into the groove, depending on condition, starting under $100.  Decorative tobacco tins or art deco cigarette holders can cost in the thousands. Get into it, you'll enjoy the treasure hunt!

German, art deco, cigarette dispenser