p rarmstrong 085 Rolf Armstrong

The composition presents a striking visual arrangement centered around a stylized portrait of a woman. She is depicted in profile, her face turned towards the right, with an elaborate hairstyle rendered in shades of gold and brown that cascade down her shoulders. The artist employed a dramatic chiaroscuro effect, highlighting the contours of her face and hair while casting much of the background into shadow. Her expression appears serene, almost regal, contributing to an overall impression of sophistication and luxury.
The portrait is framed within a circular border bearing bold lettering – “OLD GOLD” – in a distinctive typeface that dominates the visual field. This framing device immediately establishes a sense of enclosure and focus on the central figure. Surrounding the circle at its base are several depictions of rectangular packages, presumably representing the product being advertised. These are arranged symmetrically, reinforcing the overall sense of order and precision within the design.
The color palette is significant. The gold tones in the woman’s hair and the circular border evoke a feeling of opulence and value. The deep blue background creates contrast and depth, drawing attention to the illuminated portrait. The use of warm colors against cool hues contributes to a visually appealing dynamic.
Beneath the image, two lines of text are presented: Smoother and Better and “Not a cough in a carload.” These phrases function as advertising slogans, promising both sensory pleasure (smoother) and health benefits (absence of coughing). The latter statement is particularly noteworthy for its unusual phrasing; it suggests an experience free from discomfort, implying a level of quality that extends beyond the individual smoker to encompass a group.
Subtextually, the image appears to be attempting to associate the product with refinement, beauty, and social status. The idealized portrait of the woman serves as a proxy for aspiration – suggesting that consuming this product will elevate one’s own standing or experience. The emphasis on smoothness and the absence of coughing likely aims to alleviate concerns about smokings negative effects while simultaneously promoting enjoyment. The overall effect is one of carefully constructed allure, designed to appeal to consumers seeking both pleasure and perceived social advantage.