Moose, from Quadrupeds series (N41) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1890

This small chromolithograph, part of Allen & Ginter's Quadrupeds series, presents us with a moose, a powerful symbol of the North American wilderness. Its imposing antlers immediately capture our attention. The moose, in many cultures, represents strength and survival, yet here, it shares the frame with a hunter perched in a tree. This juxtaposition evokes a primal tension between man and nature. It reminds me of earlier depictions of the hunt, such as those found in ancient cave paintings, where animals are both revered and hunted. Consider the hunter's pose, reminiscent of classical depictions of watchful sentinels. This reflects a narrative of dominance and control over the natural world. Yet, the moose stands resolute, an emblem of untamed power. This dichotomy invites us to reflect on the evolving relationship between humanity and nature, where admiration and exploitation often intertwine. The image lingers in our collective memory, a visual echo of humanity's enduring dance with the wild.