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

This is an advertising card from the "Actors and Actresses" series for Virginia Brights Cigarettes, dating back to the late 19th century. The sepia tones give the image a sense of nostalgia. Note the composition, how the actress is centered within the frame, creating an immediate visual focus. The textures, from the feathered hat to the lace sleeves and the layered detailing of her corset, present a study in contrasts. Consider the semiotic implications of this image. What does the actress's attire—the hat, corset, and short bottoms—communicate about femininity and performance? This card reflects how commercial imagery began to engage with notions of spectacle, identity, and desire. The card’s structure highlights how the cultural values were being encoded and circulated through consumer goods, creating a complex interplay between commerce and cultural identity.