Wood Thrush, from the Birds of America series (N37) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

This colorful lithograph, "Wood Thrush," is part of the "Birds of America" series created by Allen & Ginter for their cigarette cards in 1888. The card features a realistic depiction of a Wood Thrush perched on a branch, its brown feathers and open beak rendered in intricate detail. The image is framed by a gilded cage, with a smaller image of the bird in a cage behind it, a motif that likely references the brand's name. This card, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, represents a unique blend of naturalism and commercialism, using captivating imagery to promote the sale of cigarettes.