Austro-Hungary, from Flags of All Nations, Series 2 (N10) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1890

"Austro-Hungary, from Flags of All Nations" is a chromolithograph produced by Allen & Ginter for their cigarette brands. These cards, dating back to the late 19th century, coincided with the height of European imperialism, so the flags were symbols of power, commerce, and colonial expansion. The flag of Austro-Hungary features the coat of arms of both Austria and Hungary, linked by a crown, which indicates a union of power and governance. The artist has paired this imagery with a ship at sea, suggesting naval power and trade routes which are crucial to the ambitions of the empire. Consider the emotional impact of these collectible cards on consumers: they evoke a sense of national pride but also serve as a reminder of the vast inequalities inherent in imperial systems. Cigarette cards reflect how consumer culture intersected with politics, shaping public perceptions of identity and power. They prompt us to reflect on the legacies of colonialism and the stories we tell ourselves about national identity.