Eva Ward, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 1) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This tiny card, from around 1887, features Eva Ward and was produced by Allen & Ginter for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. This was a time when the burgeoning advertising industry was finding new ways to reach consumers, and these cards, collected and traded, became highly sought after. The image itself presents Ward as a vision of feminine beauty, leaning elegantly on a chair. But consider the social context: the late 19th century saw the rise of celebrity culture, and actresses like Ward were among the first public figures to be widely celebrated. Institutions like the theater and the press played a crucial role in shaping public perception, and the Virginia Brights company was keen to associate its brand with this glamorous world. To understand this image better, one might delve into theater history, the rise of advertising, and the social dynamics of fame. By exploring these avenues, we can see how even a small card like this offers a window into the values and aspirations of its time.