Persian, from World's Smokers series (N33) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

This small chromolithograph was made by Allen & Ginter, as part of their World’s Smokers series of cigarette cards. Consider the making of this image; the process involved the skilled labor of artists and printmakers, and the industrial-scale production of both the cards themselves and the cigarettes they accompanied. These were distributed widely, embedding notions of global culture within everyday consumer habits. The card's appeal lies in its combination of exoticism and accessibility, presenting a romanticized view of Persian culture that would have resonated with consumers eager for a taste of the wider world. The choice of chromolithography allowed for the creation of vibrant, eye-catching images that stood out amidst the competition for consumer attention. However, this type of promotional material also raises questions about labor, class, and the ethics of consumption. This humble card is evidence of a complex web of social relations, in which desire, craft, and commerce are inextricably linked.