Ibex, from the Quadrupeds series (N21) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1890

This is ‘Ibex’ from the Quadrupeds series, a collectible card made by Allen & Ginter, presumably included in packs of their cigarettes. These cards were part of a late 19th-century trend that reflected both a growing interest in natural history and the branding strategies of the time. This image of an Ibex, standing proudly against a mountainous backdrop, seems simple enough, but it speaks volumes about the cultural context in which it was created. Consider how the depiction of animals relates to notions of the exotic, of empire, and even the scientific gaze. How does the commercial nature of this artwork influence your interpretation of the animal depicted? Is this Ibex a celebration of nature's beauty, or a symbol of something more complex? In its own way, this small card offers insight into how we construct and consume ideas about nature, commerce, and culture.