Czarina of Russia, from World's Sovereigns series (N34) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1889

"Czarina of Russia" is a lithograph from the "World's Sovereigns" series of trading cards created by Allen & Ginter in 1889. This card, featuring a portrait of the Czarina, was originally distributed as a collectible with Allen & Ginter cigarettes. The card depicts a young woman in regal attire, adorned with a crown of flowers and a pearl necklace. The ornate, gold-embossed background showcases the intricate details of the late 19th-century printing techniques. The card exemplifies the "trade card" genre, where illustrations were used to advertise products, but also served as a form of visual entertainment for collectors. This piece, currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a testament to the enduring popularity of collectible trading cards and a glimpse into the social history of the late 19th century.