Order of Saint Michael, Bavaria, from the World's Decorations series (N44) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1890

This is a lithograph of a military decoration, the Order of Saint Michael, from the World's Decorations series (N44) created by Allen & Ginter for their cigarette cards. This card from 1890 features a blue cross with a gold crown, and red and blue ribbon, as well as a decorative background. These cards, like many others from the late 19th century, were produced to give away with purchases to increase sales. This artwork was a valuable source of visual knowledge for consumers, as it depicted the Order of Saint Michael, a prestigious award given in Bavaria.