Miss Billie Barlow, from World's Beauties, Series 1 (N26) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

This small chromolithograph of Miss Billie Barlow was produced by Allen & Ginter Cigarettes in Richmond, Virginia, as part of their "World's Beauties" series. These cards were included in cigarette packs and were meant to stiffen the packaging, but also acted as a collectible item in their own right. The images offer a fascinating glimpse into the commercialization of beauty and celebrity culture in the late 19th century United States. The choice of portraying actresses and performers, like Miss Barlow, also speaks to the growing popularity of theater and public entertainment. Allen and Ginter were tapping into that emerging consumer culture, using these portraits to promote their brand and associate it with glamour and sophistication. Understanding the full story behind this image requires research into the history of tobacco companies and the rise of advertising and celebrity culture. It’s important to remember that the meaning of art objects are contingent on specific historical and social conditions.