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

Editor: This is "Madagascar, from the Types of All Nations series" made in 1889, part of a cigarette card set by Allen & Ginter. The collotype print on paper depicts a profile portrait, and something about the sitter’s gaze and slightly pursed lips strikes me as deeply thoughtful. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Ah, yes, a portrait captured on a humble cigarette card! The 'Types of All Nations' series were products of their time, weren't they? Think of it: a mass-produced image meant to fit into your cigarette pack offering a glimpse into a culture most smokers wouldn't encounter. Does it flatten culture? Of course. But, stepping back from our contemporary critiques, one almost marvels at its reach. What do you make of how they chose to depict the subject? Editor: Well, focusing on the subject's profile, it's interesting. There’s a real attempt to capture detail in his features. And that swirling background... is that supposed to suggest something about Madagascar? Curator: Perhaps! The impressionistic brushstrokes lend a somewhat romantic, exotic flair to the whole affair. This was a way for people at the time to sort of *taste* the world, to possess little collectible vignettes of different cultures. It’s also fascinating to see what details they choose to emphasize...What does it tell us about their ideas and values, hidden inside a small portrait? Editor: I guess it shows how people collect experiences and create impressions of each other. Even in these somewhat problematic portrayals, there's a desire to connect with the world, wouldn’t you say? Curator: Precisely! And, on that note, it reveals to us that sometimes what we get is but a whiff of reality! This little card makes you think about the grand and the banal at once!