Card 295, Daisy Murdoch, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 1) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This card, portraying Daisy Murdoch, was printed by Allen & Ginter for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. It is a chromolithograph, a color printing technique that uses multiple lithographic stones, one for each color, layering them to produce a complete image. In the late 19th century, these cards were commonly included in cigarette packs as a marketing strategy. These images of actresses, athletes, and other popular figures of the day, acted as a type of collectible, encouraging consumers to purchase more cigarettes. The chromolithography process allowed for mass production, making it possible to distribute these cards widely. This reflects a shift towards mass culture and consumerism, where even art became a tool for advertising. These seemingly simple cards reflect broader social and economic changes of the time. The advent of chromolithography democratized image production, making it accessible beyond the realm of fine art. By considering the materials, processes, and context of such objects, we gain a deeper appreciation for their cultural significance.