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

This is a photograph of Lilly Baretter from the Actors and Actresses series, printed by Allen & Ginter as a collectible card for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. Observe how Lilly's gaze is directed downwards, a motif echoing the classical figure of melancholia. It is as if she is lost in thought, weighed down by some unseen burden. This trope, deeply embedded in our collective memory, harkens back to ancient depictions of sadness and contemplation. We find variations of this pose in countless artworks across history, from classical sculpture to Renaissance painting. This simple gesture speaks volumes, resonating with the universal human experience of sorrow and introspection. Such expressions have an enduring power, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. The symbol cycles back again and again, evolving and taking on new meanings in different historical contexts.