Virginia, from Flags of the States and Territories (N11) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1888

This small chromolithograph, "Virginia," was produced by Allen & Ginter for their cigarette brands. Printed on thin card stock, it's a great example of mass production and the use of images to promote consumer goods. The image's materiality is crucial. Chromolithography allowed for colorful, detailed reproductions, making these cards attractive collectibles. But it also involved a division of labor, with specialized workers handling each color layer. The card depicts the Virginia state flag. The design promotes a specific idea of Virginia's identity, even as the back advertises a product consumed on a mass scale. This tension highlights the complex relationship between regional identity, industrial production, and the culture of consumption in the late 19th century. By considering the material and social context of this card, we can see how even a small, mass-produced object can offer insights into broader cultural and economic forces.