Shark, from the Fish from American Waters series (N8) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1889

This lithograph of a shark is from a series called "Fish from American Waters," created by Allen & Ginter for cigarette cards. These cards were immensely popular at the turn of the century and offer a glimpse into the cultural values of that time. These collectible cards reflect a moment when industrialization and expanding markets fueled a fascination with the natural world, all packaged in a smokeable commodity. With its mouth agape, the shark appears as a symbol of raw, untamed nature, a creature both feared and admired. The image speaks to broader themes of human dominance over the environment. Consider how these depictions of sharks, circulated through popular culture, shape our understanding of the ocean. Doesn’t the mass distribution of these images influence our collective imagination?