General Owen Williams, from the Racing Colors of the World series (N22b) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

This is a chromolithograph from the "Racing Colors of the World" series printed by Allen & Ginter in 1888 to advertise their brand of cigarettes. It depicts General Owen Williams, a jockey, in a white and red racing uniform, holding the reins and a whip, in a seated position, looking to the right. The card is a prime example of late 19th-century advertising, using vivid colors and a recognizable subject to promote Allen & Ginter's product. Chromolithographs, like this one, were a popular form of advertising and collectible during the late 19th century. This piece from the Metropolitan Museum of Art exemplifies the stylistic choices of its time, offering a glimpse into the history of both advertising and the sport of horse racing.