Goldfinch, from the Birds of America series (N37) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

"Goldfinch", from the "Birds of America" series (N37) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes, is a chromolithograph created in 1888. This colorful card depicts a goldfinch perched on a nest of eggs with roses blooming below, demonstrating the bird's natural habitat. The card is part of a larger series, produced by Allen & Ginter to be included in their cigarette packs as a promotional tool. These cards are an example of trade cards, a popular form of advertising in the late 19th century. The intricate details of the goldfinch, nest, and roses showcase the skill of chromolithography, a printing technique that used multiple plates to create vibrant colors. This work, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, provides a glimpse into the aesthetic preferences and marketing practices of the era.