Sir F. Johnstone, from the Racing Colors of the World series (N22b) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

This is a collectible card of Sir F. Johnstone, part of the Racing Colors of the World series, created by Allen & Ginter Cigarettes. Though seemingly a simple portrait, it is embedded in the cultural and economic landscape of its time. Produced as a promotional item for cigarettes, the card reflects the rise of consumer culture and the use of sports and celebrity endorsements to market products. The representation of jockeys and their racing colors speaks to the popularity of horse racing among affluent classes. The branding links pleasure with status. Consider how race, class, and gender intersect here. The world of horse racing was predominantly white and male, and these cards would have been targeted towards a similar demographic. Think about how these images reinforced existing social hierarchies, celebrating wealth and power through the depiction of a privileged sporting culture.