Always Riding, Yampah Ute, from the American Indian Chiefs series (N2) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes Brands 1888

This image of Always Riding, Yampah Ute, is a lithograph from the American Indian Chiefs series, made for Allen & Ginter cigarette brands. The chromolithography process allowed for mass production, turning images into affordable commercial items. The card's surface reveals layers of ink applied with precision, capturing the textures of Always Riding’s clothing and adornments. Note the details of the beaded collar, the feathered pendants, and the metal ornaments, each rendered to catch the eye of potential cigarette buyers. These cards were essentially marketing tools, capitalizing on popular interest in the American West. They reveal much about the modes of representation during the late 19th century, including problematic attitudes towards Native American people. The cigarette cards are a reminder that even seemingly innocuous images can be deeply embedded in systems of labor, politics, and consumption. By considering the material and context of this card, we can see how it challenges traditional distinctions between commerce, craft, and fine art.