Swallow-tailed Hawk, from the Birds of America series (N4) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1888

This is an advertisement for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes. It forms part of the series “Birds of America.” This small card speaks volumes about the cultural attitudes of its time. Look closely. The illustration features a swallow-tailed hawk swooping down to capture a snake in its talons. This imagery isn't just about nature; it reflects the era's fascination with power, control, and the conquest of the natural world. It was a time of significant industrial expansion. Think about it. What is being sold here isn’t just cigarettes, but a lifestyle deeply rooted in the exploitation of both the natural and human world. This little card reminds us of the complex layers of meaning embedded in even the most unassuming objects.