Collection: Clowns

Cherished Icons can be found in a number of Tobacco Ads. Indeed, the tobacco industry has made every effort to associate itself with noble institutions, patriotic themes, and cultural icons that connote respectability. Among the innumerable examples are George Washington, Mt. Rushmore, British royalty, the US flag, the Statue of Liberty, soldiers, astronauts, and even the beloved family pet. Even more prevalent were cultural symbols which brought to mind happy times and celebration, especially Santa Claus. Interestingly, the figure of the clown continues to crop up in tobacco ads over the decades. Simultaneously scary, funny, and perhaps cool, clowns creatively represent cigarettes in a desirable light, and may work particularly well in attracting children.