Rose-breasted Wood Robin, from the Song Birds of the World series (N23) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1890

This chromolithograph of a Rose-breasted Wood Robin was created by Allen & Ginter for their series of cigarette cards. The bird dominates the composition, its wings spread in mid-flight against a soft, atmospheric backdrop. The juxtaposition of the robin's vibrant plumage and the muted sky evokes a sense of dynamism, as though we've captured a fleeting moment in nature. The artist skillfully employs contrasting colours to create visual interest and depth. The rich, saturated hues of the bird’s rose-red breast, dark head, and copper wings stand out against the pale yellows of the flowers. The composition functions through a structured contrast—the detailed realism of the robin against the more impressionistic background, highlighting the cultural moment's interest in both scientific accuracy and romantic aesthetics. The very medium—a cigarette card—speaks to the industrialization and commodification of nature in the late 19th century. By examining its formal qualities, we can understand the cultural values and modes of perception of its time, revealing how even a seemingly simple image can be a complex site of visual and cultural meaning.