Wary, from The World's Racers series (N32) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

This is "Wary," a lithograph from Allen & Ginter's "The World's Racers" series, a cigarette card meant to be collected and traded. These cards were popular at the end of the 19th century, and they provide a fascinating glimpse into the cultural values of the time. The image depicts a jockey riding a racehorse; however, it is important to consider how gender and race intersect with the sport of horse racing. Historically, jockeys were often young, working-class men, but as the sport became more professionalized, the role became dominated by white men. While this card presents a romanticized view of athleticism, it also silently reinforces existing power structures. We might think about how such images, circulated widely, shaped perceptions about who belongs in certain sports and spaces. "Wary" is a small, mass-produced object, but it reflects broader societal issues related to race, class, and gender roles.