Purple Gallinule, from the Game Birds series (N40) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888 - 1890

This 1888-1890 chromolithograph, titled "Purple Gallinule," was created by Allen & Ginter as a trade card for their "Game Birds" series, which was included in their "Richmond Straight Cut No. 1 Cigarettes" packaging. The card features a vibrant depiction of the purple gallinule, a waterbird known for its striking purple plumage, set against a backdrop of a serene lakeshore. The card's intricate design showcases the beauty of natural imagery, while the inscription highlights the brand's association with the outdoors and its "best" cigarettes. This card is a unique and fascinating glimpse into the world of late 19th-century advertisement and natural history.