Miss Greyville, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 8) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

Allen & Ginter created this tiny photograph of Miss Greyville as a collectible insert for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. These cards existed within a complex social landscape of the late 19th century. Cigarette cards were a marketing strategy during an era of growing tobacco consumption, and they also mirrored the increasing commodification of public figures, including actresses like Miss Greyville. The image is staged, with Miss Greyville in theatrical costume and makeup. These images offered a glimpse into the glamorous world of the stage, but they also perpetuated certain ideals of femininity and beauty that were acceptable at the time. They are a reflection of the cultural gaze and the expectations placed on women in the entertainment industry. These cards are a telling artifact, reminding us how advertising, entertainment, and identity were intertwined, shaping perceptions and desires. They invite us to reflect on how these dynamics continue to play out today.