Happy Fly, from the Magic Changing Cards series (N223) issued by Kinney Tobacco Company 1889

This small card was produced by the Kinney Tobacco Company as part of the Magic Changing Cards series. It was printed using chromolithography, a technique that allowed for mass production of colorful images. The material itself—thin paper stock—reflects its intended use as a collectible insert in cigarette packs. Note the inscription "Hold to the light." These cards were intended to entertain by revealing a hidden image when held up to a light source. This was achieved by layering translucent inks on top of each other. The imagery, depicting a frog trying to catch a fly, speaks to the cultural context of late 19th-century America, where such novelties were popular forms of entertainment and advertising. Though seemingly simple, the production of this card involved complex industrial processes and skilled labor, all geared towards promoting consumption. So, while this may seem like a humble little thing, it’s actually a fascinating example of how art, commerce, and technology intersect.