Java Peacock, from the Birds of the Tropics series (N5) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1889

This Java Peacock was made for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes, part of their Birds of the Tropics series. It’s printed on a small piece of card, only a couple of inches in either dimension. Produced for mass consumption, this image reflects the industrial processes of late 19th-century printmaking. Consider the original artwork – likely a watercolor painting – expertly translated into a cheap, repeatable format. Look closely, and you'll notice the slightly blurred details and the simplified color palette. These aren't flaws, but rather evidence of the photolithographic process that allowed for mass production. The card also speaks to a particular moment in consumer culture. It’s an advertisement, yes, but also a collectible item, designed to entice customers to buy more cigarettes. The exotic subject matter – a peacock from Java – further adds to the card’s appeal, transporting the smoker to a world of luxury and refinement. This card reminds us that even the most seemingly insignificant objects can offer valuable insights into the social and economic forces that shaped their creation.