Mlle. D' Anjo, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 8) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This card featuring Mlle. D'Anjo, from the Actors and Actresses series, was produced by Allen & Ginter for Virginia Brights Cigarettes, around the late 19th century, in the United States. These cards were a form of advertising, capitalizing on the burgeoning cult of celebrity. The image presents Mlle. D'Anjo as a figure of glamour and sophistication, her fur-lined cloak and ornate guitar hinting at a life of artistry and leisure. But it's also interesting to consider the institutional context: How did the rise of mass media intersect with the commercial interests of the tobacco industry? What role did these images play in shaping public perceptions of actors and actresses, and of women in the public sphere more generally? Historical archives, theater records, and advertising ephemera can help us understand the complex social and economic forces that shaped the production and reception of images like this one. This little card offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural landscape of its time.