Queen of Belgium, from World's Sovereigns series (N34) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1889

This card featuring the “Queen of Belgium” was produced by Allen & Ginter, a cigarette company based in Richmond, Virginia. The image is a chromolithograph, meaning it was printed using multiple lithographic stones, one for each color. This relatively new industrial process allowed for mass production of colorful images. Allen & Ginter used this process to include collectible cards in their cigarette packs to encourage repeat purchases. The card depicts the Queen of Belgium against a red backdrop patterned with spiral motifs. The detailed rendering of her regal attire, including her crown, jewelry, and ornate dress, is a testament to the precision of chromolithography. The inscription at the bottom advertises Allen & Ginter’s cigarettes. The convergence of royalty and tobacco in this card tells an interesting story about the intersection of commerce, culture, and identity in the late 19th century. It reminds us to look closely at the materials, means of production, and context of an artwork to understand its full meaning.