Amandava, from the Song Birds of the World series (N42) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1890

This chromolithograph, part of the “Song Birds of the World” series, showcases an Amandava, a small, colorful finch native to Asia. Created in 1890 by the tobacco company Allen & Ginter, the card was likely intended for inclusion in cigarette packs, functioning as a collectible trading card. The artist uses vivid colors and intricate detail to depict the bird perched on a branch, with a background showcasing its natural habitat. This card is an example of the "trade card" genre, showcasing how art was often used to promote commercial products during the 19th century. The card is housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.