[Actress wearing ornate hat], from the Actors and Actresses series (N145-8) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Duke Cigarettes 1890 - 1895

Editor: This is a vintage print, "Actress wearing ornate hat," from around 1890, part of the "Actors and Actresses" series promoting Duke Cigarettes. It's striking how such an elegant image was used for commercial purposes. What layers do you see in this piece beyond its surface appearance? Curator: This piece is more than just a portrait; it’s a cultural artifact reflecting the intersections of gender, commerce, and performance. The actress, adorned in an elaborate hat and jewelry, embodies a certain ideal of femininity that was actively marketed to consumers. We should consider how this image normalizes and commodifies female beauty within the context of the burgeoning advertising industry. Editor: So, it’s not just about selling cigarettes; it's also about selling an image of women? Curator: Precisely. This portrait also subtly participates in a visual language that both empowers and objectifies women. Who had access to these images, and how might different audiences, particularly women themselves, have interpreted this type of portrait? The japonisme influence also points to the orientalizing gaze prevalent at the time, influencing Western beauty standards. Editor: That’s a great point about different audiences interpreting it differently. I hadn't thought about the orientalizing gaze either. It’s fascinating to see how many layers are embedded in what initially appears to be a simple advertisement. Curator: Exactly! By examining its historical and cultural context, we can better understand the complex narratives surrounding identity, representation, and consumerism. It prompts us to question what visual narratives were promoted then and consider their relevance today. Editor: I'll definitely look at advertisements differently now! Thanks.