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

This card, "Flounder", was produced by Allen & Ginter for their series of cigarette cards. These cards were made using chromolithography, a color printing technique that involves using multiple lithographic stones, each applying a different color to create a complete image. The card stock is thin, and the image is printed with an attention to detail and color. Look closely and you’ll see the texture of the flounder’s skin, and the way the colors blend to give the fish a sense of depth. The card is part of a series of collectible items included in cigarette packs to stiffen the packaging and promote the brand. The mass production of these cards reflects the rise of consumer culture and industrial printing techniques. The act of collecting and trading these cards became a widespread hobby, blurring the lines between advertising, art, and everyday life. The tradition of collecting cards speaks to the intersection of commerce, culture, and the human desire for collecting and classifying.