Badger, from Quadrupeds series (N41) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1890

This chromolithograph, “Badger”, is from the "Quadrupeds" series of trading cards produced by Allen & Ginter in 1890. As a form of advertising for Allen & Ginter cigarettes, these cards were distributed with packs of cigarettes. The card depicts a badger in its natural habitat, and is characteristic of the highly detailed natural illustrations of the 19th century. This card, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, is a prime example of the history of American printmaking and advertising.