Sturgeon, from the Fish from American Waters series (N8) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1889

This is an image of a sturgeon, printed by the Allen & Ginter company as a collectible card, presumably in the late 19th century. Such cards were distributed with the company's cigarettes. It is worth considering the social conditions that gave rise to this image and the entire series of which it was a part. At this time, cigarettes were becoming increasingly popular, and tobacco companies were looking for ways to promote their brands. The cards served as a form of advertising, but they also reflected the growing interest in natural history and science among the general public. This card therefore speaks to the culture of collecting, classifying, and understanding the natural world that was prevalent in the 19th century. Understanding the social and cultural context in which this image was made can help us to appreciate its significance as a historical artifact, which is why an understanding of institutional histories is so important.