John Davis, Stabbing the Sentry, from the Pirates of the Spanish Main series (N19) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1886 - 1891

This tiny card, "John Davis, Stabbing the Sentry," was mass-produced by Allen & Ginter for their cigarette packs. Lithography, a printmaking technique that uses a flat stone or metal plate, allowed for the cheap reproduction of images on a vast scale. Look closely, and you'll see how the artist uses color and line to create depth and drama, even in such a small format. The action unfolds against a neutral backdrop, with a close-up portrait of John Davis adding a touch of personality. But the real story here isn't just the image itself, but the context of its creation. These cards were essentially a form of marketing, designed to entice consumers to buy more cigarettes. They reflect the rise of consumer culture in the late 19th century, where art and commerce became intertwined. This little card is a reminder that art can be found in unexpected places, and that even the most humble objects can tell us something about the world around us.