Chile, from Flags of All Nations, Series 1 (N9) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1887

This small card showing the flag of Chile was produced by Allen & Ginter Cigarettes, of Richmond, Virginia. It's a lithograph, a printmaking process which relies on the skillful application of ink to a prepared stone or metal plate. The inherent qualities of lithography – its capacity for relatively quick reproduction – are significant here. Like other cards in the "Flags of All Nations" series, this one was included in cigarette packs as a collectible premium. This was a tactic to encourage repeat purchases, and brand loyalty. Think about the social context: mass production, consumerism, and global trade all rolled into one tiny object. The lithographic process, while capable of great nuance, here delivers a bold, graphic image, in keeping with its role as an advertising tool. The flag’s design is simplified, yet still recognizable. Consider the amount of labor involved in creating thousands upon thousands of these cards. Ultimately, this little lithograph is a testament to the power of materials and making. It collapses the distinction between art and commerce, reminding us that even the most humble objects can carry rich cultural significance.