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

This card portraying Frankil Kemble, part of the Actors and Actresses series, was created by Allen & Ginter for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. It is made of paper with a photograph emulsion. The production of trade cards like this one, involved several industrial processes: from the harvesting and curing of tobacco, to the photographic process of capturing the image, the printing of the cards, and finally, their distribution. The card would have been printed in bulk, reflecting the rise of mass production and consumer culture in the late 19th century. The photograph itself has a sepia tone, which was achieved through chemical processes typical of the period. Its small size speaks to its function as a collectible, something to be gathered and traded. The printing includes stylized lettering and the brand's name, also reflecting commercial considerations and a growing advertising industry. This unassuming card offers a glimpse into the intertwined histories of photography, commerce, and celebrity culture. It reminds us that even the most commonplace objects can reveal much about the social and economic forces that shaped their creation.