Magnificent Bird of Paradise, from Birds of the Tropics series (N38) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1889

Curator: This chromolithograph, titled "Magnificent Bird of Paradise," is from Allen & Ginter’s "Birds of the Tropics" series, created in 1889. The series was included in cigarette packs. Editor: My immediate reaction is that this little print pulses with vibrant colors and exotic imagery. There’s a touch of the fantastical about it; it is not quite real. Curator: Absolutely, and it's important to consider the historical context. Cigarette cards like this served a dual purpose: to stiffen cigarette packs and as advertising premiums. Their popularity reflects the rise of consumer culture and global exploration during the late 19th century. Editor: And within that consumer culture, the image functions as more than just advertisement. Birds, especially exotic ones, are recurring symbols for transcendence, paradise, and freedom, of course. The magnificent bird-of-paradise acts almost like a visual shorthand for the luxuries associated with this brand. Notice its colors which were intentionally placed as visual keys with the secondary scene's similar palettes, further connecting this fantasy of paradise. Curator: Good point. Also consider that Orientalism was in vogue at the time, particularly in American visual culture. You see how they position exotic people and places. Editor: It does seem so deliberate; the arcaded courtyard with figures of color in flowing robes seems carefully placed in opposition to this free bird on its branch, a parallel symbol. The card's composition acts as an allegory for consumers’ aspiration through purchase. Curator: Interesting take! One of the powerful elements here is that these cards democratized art viewing and distribution in unprecedented ways. Although there are negative connotations when viewed through today’s lens. Editor: The cards opened up the discussion surrounding the relationship with beauty and the culture's concept of "faraway." This "magnificent bird," becomes accessible in some fashion. Curator: Indeed, reflecting on the political and social dimensions reveals much about a commodity like this card. It reveals not just advertising strategies, but how people created desires through images. Editor: Exactly! And examining the iconography helps us unravel the persistent, almost primal association of birds with idealized visions of life, dreams of escaping everyday struggles, of flying high in our personal paradises.