Card 43, Vanessa Antiopa, from the Butterflies series (N183) issued by Wm. S. Kimball & Co. 1888

This chromolithograph, Card 43, Vanessa Antiopa, from the Butterflies series was printed by Wm. S. Kimball & Co. in the 19th century in the United States. These cards were originally included in cigarette packs as a way to stiffen the packaging and advertise the brand. The image depicts a woman with butterfly wings, blending classical beauty with natural science, a trend reflective of Victorian interests. The woman is adorned with flowers and jewelry, emphasizing conventional beauty standards, while the butterfly wings signal an engagement with the natural world. Such cards gained popularity during an era marked by increasing industrialization and urbanization. Tobacco companies capitalized on this trend by distributing images that appealed to a broad consumer base. Understanding this card requires not only an appreciation for its aesthetic qualities but also an understanding of its social and commercial context. Historical archives, company records, and period publications offer valuable insight into the cultural significance of such images.