This newspaper advertisement targets female consumers in two ways. Firstly, because acquiring the product, table salt, fell to women as keepers of the home in the late-Victorian era. Secondly, because the premium offered with purchase was a tasteful depiction of a lavish Crazy quilt block. What exactly an “Ideal Portrait” was isn’t clear, but by connecting itself with artistic and decorative ideals, the Virgin Salt Company was casting its product as a refined choice for the female consumer.

Image via Nineteenth Century U.S. Newspapers