Black Bear, from the Wild Animals of the World series (N25) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

"Black Bear" is a chromolithograph from the "Wild Animals of the World" series, produced by Allen & Ginter in 1888 for their cigarette cards. The image features a close-up of a black bear's head, with its mouth slightly open, showcasing its sharp teeth. The bear's fur is rendered in detail, with a realistic depiction of the animal's powerful physique. This small-format card (7 x 3.8 cm) is a prime example of the popular trend in the late 19th century of using collectible cards to promote cigarette brands. The card is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.