Bavaria, from Flags of All Nations, Series 2 (N10) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1890

Curator: This small lithograph, dating to 1890, is titled "Bavaria, from Flags of All Nations, Series 2." It was created for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes. The print currently resides here at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Editor: It's quite striking, isn't it? Even within the ornate details, I get a sense of rigid nationalism and carefully constructed identity. The Bavarian flag, nearly bisected, feels symbolically fragmented, while those heraldic lions practically shout masculinity. Curator: The interesting thing about this piece is how consumer culture, specifically the tobacco industry, participated in disseminating notions of nationhood and cultural identity. Allen & Ginter sought to educate and entice consumers with a global perspective, linking their product with a broad, aspirational worldliness. Editor: So, Bavaria then, becomes not just a place but a brand—an exotic marker within a constructed imperial gaze? It’s fascinating to see how capitalism uses symbolism and the language of nations to advance particular agendas. Consider that this card, in its materiality, acted as a cultural ambassador. Curator: Exactly. And flags, lions, coats of arms, all contribute to building a narrative about what constitutes Bavarian-ness. It becomes a tool for social differentiation, reinforcing a visual hierarchy among consumers and associating the brand with that same hierarchical structure. Editor: And this raises questions about the target audience, doesn't it? Who were they picturing savoring cigarettes and these images of nationhood? Were there intentional exclusions in who was made to feel like a potential consumer, and who was not? Curator: Undoubtedly. Think about access, class, even gender—who was likely consuming cigarettes and engaging with these images? The flags become powerful markers in constructing and maintaining social boundaries, especially when linked to the exclusive consumption of commodities like cigarettes. Editor: This small object serves as a poignant reminder of how deeply entwined our sense of belonging is with economics and representation, and how popular culture often quietly advances certain structures of feeling. Curator: Indeed. And viewing this small piece in the context of today allows for important insights into nationalism and the persistent impact of historical narratives. Editor: Absolutely, and it urges a constant reevaluation of power, both past and present.