Black Red Game Bantams, from the Prize and Game Chickens series (N20) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1891

This chromolithograph of Black Red Game Bantams was created by Allen & Ginter, as part of their Prize and Game Chickens series, printed to be included in cigarette packs. The process of chromolithography involved using multiple limestone printing plates, each applying a different color to create a vibrant image. The skilled work to produce these cards was labor-intensive. The process transformed images into commodities, printed en masse and distributed to the masses with the goal of increasing sales of tobacco products. The image itself shows a pair of game bantams, prized for their breeding and fighting abilities. The cards were not only advertisements, but also collected and traded. The packs encouraged a culture of collecting, and spoke to the rise of consumer culture in the late 19th century. Considering the materials, making, and social context of this chromolithograph helps us to understand the complex relationship between art, commerce, and popular culture at the time.