Paradise Tanager, from the Birds of the Tropics series (N5) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1889

This colorful chromolithograph, “Paradise Tanager,” is part of the “Birds of the Tropics” series (N5) created by Allen & Ginter for their cigarette brand in 1889. The image depicts a vibrant, exotic bird perched on a branch amidst a lush tropical background. The bird is the focal point of the artwork, rendered in striking detail, with its plumage showcased in a variety of blues, reds, yellows, and greens. The artwork served as a trade card, promoting Allen & Ginter cigarettes while also highlighting the beauty and diversity of the natural world. Today, the card is a treasured example of late 19th-century natural history illustration and a fascinating artifact of the marketing strategies of the time.