Trade Card - Thomson's, Parkersburg, West Virginia, 1885

This trade card advertises Thomson's Patent Glove-Fitting Corsets, which were sold by Isaac Praeger & Sons of Parkersburg, West Virginia. The verso of the card promotes the corsets, claiming they had been popular for fifteen years and were "the most popular Corsets throughout the United States," praised for their construction and ability to create a "perfect figure." It also mentions different "G" quality styles: E (Pitti-Sing), D (Yum-Yum), and Ventilating Style (Peep-Bo). The front of the card features a color illustration of three white women dressed in stereotypical Japanese kimonos, holding corsets. They are labeled "Pitti-Sing," "Yum-Yum," and "Peep-Bo," referencing characters from Gilbert and Sullivan's "The Mikado." The card includes a crown "TRADE MARK" logo and ornate text for "Thomson's Patent Glove Fitting." The imagery reflects a problematic and racist depiction of Asian culture. **3.

Associated People/Businesses

• Isaac Praeger
• Praeger, Isaac

Geography

No geographic information available.

Subjects

• Corsets
• Undergarments
• Women's fashion
• Advertising
• Trade cards
• 19th Century
• Victorian Era
• Racism
• Stereotypes
• The Mikado
• Japanese culture (depicted)
• Parkersburg, West Virginia
• Dry goods
• Thomson, Langdon & Co.
• Isaac Praeger & Sons

Physical Location

Arc.MS.56, Box 23, Folder 9