Hairy Bear, Winnebagoes, from the American Indian Chiefs series (N36) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

Allen & Ginter created this lithograph of Hairy Bear of the Winnebago tribe as part of a series of collectible cards included in cigarette packs. These cards, common in the late 19th century, offer a glimpse into the complex dynamics between commercial interests and cultural representation during a period of westward expansion and the subjugation of Native American peoples. What does it mean to commodify and flatten identity into a collectible? The romanticized depiction of Hairy Bear, adorned with traditional garments and artifacts, stands in stark contrast to the lived realities of Native Americans, who were facing displacement, forced assimilation, and cultural erasure. These cards were consumed by a predominantly white audience, shaping perceptions of Indigenous people. The emotional weight of this piece resides in understanding its role in perpetuating stereotypes and simplifying complex histories. It reflects a broader societal issue of cultural appropriation, which erases individual experiences and reinforces dominant narratives.