Pauline Hall, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 8) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This small card, featuring actress Pauline Hall, was made by Allen & Ginter as part of a series of promotional cards for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. Printed on thin paper stock, the image is a reminder of the intimate connection between consumer culture and the entertainment industry at the time. The sepia tone suggests a photographic process, likely mass-produced to be included in cigarette packs. This speaks to the democratization of image production during the late 19th century, with photography becoming increasingly accessible to the masses. The card is an artifact of its time, reflecting both the rising popularity of celebrity culture and the pervasive presence of tobacco advertising. As a mass-produced object designed to boost sales, it challenges traditional notions of art by highlighting the intersection of commerce, craft, and cultural identity.