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

This is a photographic print of Margaret Mather from the Actors and Actresses series, produced by Allen & Ginter as a promotional item for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. Notice the sepia tone and the small scale of the image, typical of its function as a collectible card. The composition is carefully arranged with Margaret Mather positioned slightly off-center, creating a dynamic tension. Her gaze meets ours directly, while her body is angled, holding a fan that adds a layer of artifice. The textures are subtly rendered, from the floral patterns on her gown to the ornate backdrop, providing a sense of depth within the limited dimensions. The card serves as a semiotic device, intertwining celebrity, performance, and commerce. Margaret Mather, a well-known actress, lends her image to promote cigarettes, blurring the lines between art, advertising, and identity. The image challenges the viewer to consider the constructed nature of fame and the commodification of beauty. Ultimately, the print invites us to reflect on how cultural values and artistic expression can be packaged and consumed.