Shaft-tailed Bunting, from the Song Birds of the World series (N23) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1890

This is a chromolithograph of a Shaft-tailed Bunting, from the Song Birds of the World series, produced by Allen & Ginter for their cigarette brand. These cards, popular in the late 19th century, offered a glimpse into a world far beyond the everyday lives of consumers. The Shaft-tailed Bunting, perched delicately on a branch, becomes more than just an image of natural beauty; it represents a moment of colonial expansion. The exotic bird, carefully rendered, speaks to a burgeoning interest in faraway lands, fueled by exploration and trade. Yet, this romantic view often obscures the realities of environmental exploitation and the disruption of indigenous ecosystems. As you consider this image, think about the stories it doesn't tell – the impact of commerce on the natural world, the human cost of our desires, and the emotional distance we often create between ourselves and the environment.