Bavarian Postillion, from World's Smokers series (N33) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

"Bavarian Postillion" is a lithograph card from the "World's Smokers" series of trading cards produced by Allen & Ginter in 1888. The card features a portrait of a Bavarian postillion, a type of mail carrier, wearing a distinctive uniform, including a tall black hat adorned with a gold band and a red coat. The postillion is depicted holding a pipe, adding a touch of realism to the image. These cards, originally packaged with cigarettes, are a valuable piece of Americana and exemplify the popular "carte de visite" format common in the late 19th century. They offer a glimpse into the diversity of people and cultures around the world, highlighting the popularity of tobacco products in various societies. The card, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a testament to the artistic and social significance of these ephemeral objects.