Philadelphia, U.S.N., from the Famous Ships series (N50) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1895

This 1895 lithograph, part of the "Famous Ships" series for Virginia Brights Cigarettes, depicts the USS Philadelphia, a protected cruiser of the United States Navy. The image, created by Allen & Ginter, captures the ship's imposing presence, showcasing its intricate rigging and powerful hull. It was likely distributed as a collectible trading card, reflecting the popular interest in naval vessels during this era. The image is part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection and showcases the burgeoning use of lithographic printing as a means of mass-producing images.