Card Number 330, Lulu Mortimer, from the Actors and Actresses series (N145-5) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Cameo Cigarettes 1880s

This is a promotional card of Lulu Mortimer, an actress, made by Duke Sons & Co. to advertise Cameo Cigarettes. Observe how Lulu’s confident pose echoes the contrapposto of classical sculptures. Her posture, with hands on her hips, asserts a bold presence. Even her peculiar headwear has symbolic echoes. It reminds one of the Phrygian cap, worn in antiquity to denote freedom from tyranny. Consider how the cigarette company appropriates these symbols. They borrow the power of classical art and revolutionary ideals to elevate their product. Just as the Phrygian cap evolved from a symbol of freedom to a fashion statement, cultural symbols can be co-opted. They can be transformed, sometimes losing their original meanings, as they journey through time. This card reflects the human tendency to imbue objects with aspirational meaning. It is not just about selling cigarettes, but also about selling an image of sophistication. Such appropriation is a reminder of the cyclical nature of cultural symbols. Their meaning may change, but their psychological power endures.