Mlle. De Lussan, from the Actresses series (N246), Type 1, issued by Kinney Brothers to promote Sporting Extra Cigarettes 1888 - 1892

Curator: Looking at this portrait, there's a quiet serenity that emanates from Mlle. De Lussan. A softness, despite the photographic print. Editor: Exactly! It's fascinating how these small cards, like the one depicting Mlle. De Lussan from the "Actresses" series, become powerful cultural artifacts. Produced by Kinney Brothers around 1890 to promote Sporting Extra Cigarettes, these weren't high art initially but were integral to commerce and popular culture. Curator: Cigarette cards... They were like little windows into another world, weren't they? This particular portrait, housed at the Met, offers a glimpse into the aesthetics of the late 19th century. The woman herself is looking into the distance as if captured during contemplation. Her expression carries with it a feeling of melancholic longing that I find hard to shake off. Editor: It is interesting to reflect on their initial purpose in mass marketing. The images of actresses circulated widely and were readily consumed, contributing significantly to the social standing of theatre and performance at that time. Each card was, essentially, a tiny advertisement, promoting an ideal, a lifestyle as well as a product. Curator: I imagine her image gracing countless albums. Do you think viewers back then focused on the commodity they promoted, or were they captivated by the artistry of the image itself? I am keen on what the portrait itself represents. She stands with a face that hints at inner feelings while her look reveals little. I can almost picture people creating narratives around this beautiful portrait. Editor: Good question! Undoubtedly, people responded on multiple levels. Some were simply lured by the allure of glamour, a glimpse into a world of celebrity previously unattainable. And perhaps, the subtle emotional nuance gave them more reason to hold onto these. However, let's not overlook the crucial role these images played in constructing a visual culture. Curator: Indeed. The subtle emotional language captured makes this portrait timeless. Thank you. Editor: Thank you. It's remarkable how such a modest piece can spark such broad discussions.