Burmese Dancer, from the Dancing Women series (N186) issued by Wm. S. Kimball & Co. 1889

This lithograph of a Burmese dancer is part of the Dancing Women series, issued by the Wm. S. Kimball & Co., a 19th-century tobacco company. These cards were originally included in cigarette packs. These cards reflect the West's fascination with, and often misrepresentation of, other cultures. In this image, the dancer's exoticized portrayal speaks to the colonial gaze and the marketing of a romanticized "Orient." The dancer’s graceful pose and the vibrant colors might evoke a sense of wonder, but it’s important to consider the broader context of cultural appropriation and the commercial exploitation of foreign cultures. The card participates in constructing and circulating stereotypes, reminding us to critically examine how images shape perceptions and perpetuate power dynamics. It is an emotionally charged experience, understanding the beautiful and sometimes dangerous effects of representation.