Alme, from National Dances (N225, Type 2) issued by Kinney Bros. 1889

This is a trade card of 'Alme' from National Dances, printed by Kinney Bros. Tobacco Company in the late 19th century. It depicts an idealized vision of an Almeh, a class of female entertainers in Egypt, who were often dancers and singers. The card presents an exoticized view of Middle Eastern culture, reflecting the Orientalism prevalent at the time in the United States. American tobacco companies routinely used images of foreign cultures to market their products, creating a fantasy of otherness that was highly appealing to consumers. These cards were inserted into cigarette packs, incentivizing repeat purchases and creating a collectible series. Trade cards like this one offer us a window into the commercial culture of the late 19th century, as well as the social attitudes of the era. Understanding the social conditions and institutional practices that led to the production of this card requires delving into business history and the history of mass media. By examining sources like company records, advertising archives, and consumer surveys, the role of the historian is to illuminate these hidden histories and interpret the cultural meanings embedded in visual artifacts.