Tartary, from the Types of All Nations series (N24) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1889

This chromolithograph of ‘Tartary’ was produced by Allen & Ginter for their series of cigarette cards called ‘Types of All Nations’ in the late 19th century. These cards offered exoticized glimpses into cultures far removed from the daily lives of American consumers. The image presents a man from Tartary, a historical region spanning parts of modern-day Russia, Ukraine, and Central Asia. The choice of subject reflects the West's fascination with, and often misinformed perception of, the East during a period marked by imperial expansion and colonial ambition. The visual codes, such as the man’s elaborate hat and clothing, contribute to a sense of otherness, reinforcing prevailing stereotypes. The production and distribution of these cards can be seen as part of the institutional history of consumer culture, and how commercial enterprises played a role in shaping public opinion about different cultures. By examining such artifacts, along with related publications and commercial records, historians can shed light on the complex interplay between commerce, culture, and the construction of identity in the past.