Mlle. Deanville, from the Actors and Actresses series (N145-8) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Duke Cigarettes 1890 - 1895

This trade card of Mlle. Deanville was created by W. Duke, Sons & Co. to promote Duke Cigarettes. Note the net she casually bears, a tool that speaks of both capture and provision. Its form echoes the ancient fishing nets depicted in early frescoes, yet its meaning has subtly shifted. In antiquity, the net was a symbol of the Church, gathering souls. Here, it represents the actress's power to ensnare and captivate her audience. This gesture harks back to classical poses of hunters and gatherers but is imbued with a modern, theatrical flair. The image evokes a sense of power and allure. The subtle gesture and careful arrangement of elements create an emotional intensity, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. The symbolism resonates across time, a testament to the enduring human fascination with the themes of pursuit, capture, and display.