Missouri, from Flags of the States and Territories (N11) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1888

Allen & Ginter's "Missouri, from Flags of the States and Territories," is a late 19th-century lithograph that fits within a rectangle, playing with layers of pictorial space and symbolic elements. The dominant feature is the flag of Missouri, rendered in rich blues and golds, adorned with stars and the state's coat of arms. The flag’s symbolism is striking, demanding an interpretation that considers its cultural context. Below the flag, the composition transitions into a landscape. We see a townscape complete with buildings and a bridge that fades into the background, creating an interplay between near and far. The juxtaposition of the flag, the town and the train introduces a dialogue between state identity, urbanization, and progress. At the bottom, the artwork is grounded by the company's branding, presented on a pink ribbon. The text, 'Allen & Ginter’s Cigarettes,' not only serves as an advertisement but also invites reflection on the commercial forces shaping cultural symbols. This blending of state pride with commercial advertising serves as a lens through which we can understand the intertwined relationship between identity, representation, and consumerism.