Card 55, from the Girl Cyclists series (N49) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1887

Allen & Ginter produced this small card as part of a series promoting Virginia Brights Cigarettes. During the late 19th century, the rise of the "New Woman" challenged traditional gender roles. Bicycling became a symbol of women's emancipation, offering them unprecedented freedom and mobility. Here, a woman confidently rides a bicycle, dressed in practical attire. The cigarette is a bold statement, defying social norms that confined women to passive roles. This image reflects the spirit of women who sought to redefine their identities and challenge patriarchal structures. The bicycle represented more than just transportation. It was a vehicle for change. The card captures the complex interplay between commerce, gender, and liberation during a transformative era, inviting viewers to reflect on the ongoing struggle for equality and self-determination.