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

Editor: So, this is “Reindeer, from the Quadrupeds series” by Allen & Ginter, created around 1890. It's a small print, seemingly mass-produced. There's a directness to it – an attempt at capturing the animal realistically, I think. It looks very… contained, somehow. What do you see in it? Curator: You know, when I look at this, I'm immediately struck by how *not* wild it feels. Think about it: this image ended up on a cigarette card! Something disposable, meant for everyday consumption. The reindeer isn't roaming free across a snowy landscape, but essentially "captured", tamed by the artistic medium and commercial intent. The soft colours add a sense of dreaminess almost. Does that register for you at all? Editor: Yes, definitely! Now that you mention it, there's almost a feeling of domestication despite it being, well, a reindeer. What about its positioning within the frame, how would you respond to that? Curator: I'd respond to it that that the cropping is fascinating, isn't it? How the reindeer is positioned to nearly meet all corners, it is like it is busting to get out and you almost want to tear the card open to set it free. What a wonderful thought, hey! Editor: That's a wonderful thought, actually! It really changed how I looked at it. Curator: It has, perhaps, for both of us, no? Next, please!