Eland, from the Wild Animals of the World series (N25) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

Curator: Looking at this piece, "Eland, from the Wild Animals of the World series," printed around 1888 by Allen & Ginter, I’m immediately struck by the cultural context of these cigarette cards. They reflect an era of rampant colonialism and a desire to catalogue and, in a way, possess the ‘exotic.’ Editor: It's remarkable how much detail is achieved with coloured pencils on such a small scale. The composition, a close-up portrait, guides our focus to the animal's face, demanding a level of attention not typically granted to wildlife in art. The gaze holds a certain solemnity. Curator: Exactly! It’s also important to consider what was left out. Where is its habitat? Who benefits from its image being consumed in this way? These cards normalize a hierarchy, positioning the Western consumer as the beholder, implicitly endorsing imperial exploitation of natural resources and indigenous lands. Editor: I agree that the context is relevant, yet I am intrigued by the artist’s manipulation of form. The rendering of the fur, the twist of the horns—they possess a striking, almost sculptural quality. And consider the colour choices; the pastel background softens the impact, almost domesticating this wild animal. Curator: But domesticating the wild is precisely the problem! This seemingly innocent image is part of a larger system that diminishes the eland, stripping it of its agency and transforming it into a collectible commodity. These trading cards are about power dynamics disguised as harmless entertainment. Editor: Perhaps. Yet, by isolating the eland in this way, the artist also invites contemplation of its unique beauty. It’s an image of inherent elegance rendered with clear, focused artistry and detail. Curator: Yes, the artistic skill is undeniable, but the historical context is crucial here. It's a reminder that art can never be truly separated from the social and political realities that shaped its creation and reception. These images had a profound effect on public consciousness at the time, which continues to resonate. Editor: I suppose it demonstrates how even an outwardly simple drawing can reveal intricate connections and layers upon closer scrutiny. Curator: Exactly! It reminds us to consider whose perspectives and realities are being overlooked, and what values this kind of work normalizes and perpetuates.