Capitol of Kentucky in Frankfort, from the General Government and State Capitol Buildings series (N14) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1889

This small card, part of a series by Allen & Ginter, depicts the Capitol of Kentucky in Frankfort, using chromolithography, a color printing technique popular in the late 19th century. The card's smooth surface belies the complex process involved in its production. Chromolithography allowed for mass production of colorful images. Each color required a separate stone or plate, meticulously prepared by skilled workers. The crisp lines, subtle shading, and vibrant hues of the Kentucky Capitol are a testament to the artistry of the draftsmen and printers involved. The image itself, printed on a card, speaks to the booming trade in tobacco, and the novel ways in which brands sought to connect with consumers. Allen and Ginter was among the first to include collectible cards in their packaging as a means of advertising their brand. The company was later acquired by the American Tobacco Company, controlled by James Buchanan Duke, who would come to dominate the industry. This seemingly humble card represents a pivotal moment in the history of both image-making and consumer culture. It embodies the convergence of art, commerce, and technology that defined the era.