Zebra, from the Quadrupeds series (N21) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1890

This image of a zebra comes from a series of collectible cards, produced by Allen & Ginter Cigarettes. These chromolithographs – or colored prints – were never meant to be considered high art. Rather, they were included in cigarette packs as a marketing tactic. Look closely, and you’ll see the material qualities of mass production. The lines are clear and precise, and the colors are flat and vibrant. These cards were printed using multiple lithographic stones, each applying a different color to the paper. This allowed for the creation of detailed and colorful images, but also reflects an industrial, assembly-line process. The subject matter, too, is telling. The Quadrupeds series exoticized animals, such as zebras, reflecting a growing interest in natural history and exploration. But it also shows the power of consumer culture, which could turn anything, even the natural world, into a collectible commodity. These cards were truly democratic – a small pleasure available to almost anyone. They offer a fascinating window into the intersection of art, industry, and popular culture.