Reindeer, from the Wild Animals of the World series (N25) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

This is an image of a reindeer, made as a color lithograph trading card by Allen & Ginter. It was part of a series called "Wild Animals of the World," a popular marketing strategy used in the late 19th century to sell cigarettes. These cards reflect a period of intense global exploration and colonial expansion. What was once unknown became something to be captured, collected, and consumed. The animal is presented as an exotic commodity, reinforcing a sense of Western dominance over the natural world. It is presented as a symbol of untamed wilderness, ready for consumption. These images were consumed uncritically, helping to shape perceptions of different cultures and regions. The card invites us to reflect on the complex ways in which our understanding of the world is shaped through the lens of commerce and cultural exchange.