Duck-Billed Platypus, from the Wild Animals of the World series (N25) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

This chromolithograph, part of the “Wild Animals of the World” series, depicts a duck-billed platypus, a unique mammal native to Australia. The artwork, created by Allen & Ginter in 1888 for their cigarette cards, showcases the animal's distinctive features, including its duck-like bill and furred body. The vibrant colors and detailed rendering highlight the platypus's unusual appearance, making it a fascinating subject for natural history enthusiasts and collectors alike. This card, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, represents a fascinating example of late 19th-century scientific illustration and the burgeoning interest in natural wonders.