Mrs. G.L. Lorillard, from the Racing Colors of the World series (N22a) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

This is Mrs. G.L. Lorillard, an advertising card for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes, part of the Racing Colors of the World series. Published in the late 19th century, this card reflects the growing popularity of horseracing. What’s more interesting is the inclusion of a woman in this series. During this era, women's roles were largely confined to the domestic sphere, yet here we see Mrs. Lorillard represented in connection with a traditionally male domain. It challenges the strict gender norms of the time, offering an alternative narrative of female participation in public life, albeit through the lens of commercial advertising. While appearing progressive, we must remember that its primary function was to sell cigarettes. The juxtaposition of female representation with a product like cigarettes prompts us to consider the complex ways in which identities are constructed and consumed within commercial culture.