Mary Anderson, from the Actresses series (N246), Type 1, issued by Kinney Brothers to promote Sporting Extra Cigarettes 1888 - 1892

This is "Mary Anderson," a photograph from the Actresses series, created by Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company. The photograph uses sepia tones that give the image a timeless quality. The composition is a study in contrasts, with the soft, flowing lines of Anderson's draped headwear set against the sharper angles of her profile. Note how the fabric frames her face, drawing our attention to her serene expression and the delicate balance between light and shadow. These images were originally designed as promotional items for cigarettes. As semiotic objects, they encouraged both aspiration and consumption. The presentation of beauty and elegance, commodified and packaged, reflects broader cultural codes and values of the time. Ultimately, this photograph offers a fascinating glimpse into the relationship between art, commerce, and the construction of identity. It invites us to reflect on how the formal elements of an image can convey meaning and shape our perceptions.