Sawfish, from Fish from American Waters series (N39) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1889

This chromolithograph, “Sawfish,” is from the “Fish from American Waters” series created by Allen & Ginter in 1889 for their cigarette cards. This card depicts a sawfish, a type of ray with a long, toothed rostrum (snout). The card's border design, featuring green seaweed and a seahorse in the top section, adds to the marine theme. This is a prime example of the chromolithography technique, popular in the late 19th century for its vibrant colors and intricate details. The card is housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York.