Egypt, from the Types of All Nations series (N24) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1889

"Egypt, from the Types of All Nations series" was created by Allen & Ginter as part of a series of cigarette cards, a popular advertising medium. During the late 19th century, as global trade expanded, so did curiosity about different cultures. These cards capitalized on that interest, presenting romanticized, often exoticized, images of women from around the world. This image perpetuates a colonial gaze, reducing a complex, diverse country to a single, generalized image. The woman is adorned in what are presumed to be traditional Egyptian garments and jewelry, her features softened and stylized to fit Western ideals of beauty. These images participated in constructing a global hierarchy, subtly reinforcing notions of Western superiority. The "types" series, while seemingly benign, contributed to a broader cultural context where non-Western cultures were seen as objects of curiosity and consumption. As you view this image, consider the power dynamics at play, and how these historical representations continue to influence our perceptions of identity and culture today.