Card 32, from the Girl Cyclists series (N49) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1887

This is Card 32 from the Girl Cyclists series, made by Allen and Ginter for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. Produced during the late 19th century, these cards were originally inserts in cigarette packs, reflecting the rising popularity of cycling and the burgeoning advertising industry. While the series is titled "Girl Cyclists", this card depicts a male cyclist performing a stunt. This raises questions about gender roles and expectations during the period, as well as the representation of athleticism and skill. The figure strikes a pose of audacious balance, embodying both freedom and control. The androgynous presentation of the cyclist blurs traditional gender lines, hinting at the fluidity of identity. Though ostensibly promoting cigarettes, the image subtly engages with contemporary discussions about women's emancipation and the changing landscape of social norms. Through its imagery, this card captures a moment of transition, where societal expectations are challenged and new possibilities emerge. It invites us to contemplate the complex interplay between commerce, identity, and cultural change.