Card Number 148, Clifton, from the Actors and Actresses series (N145-4) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Cameo Cigarettes 1880s

"Card Number 148, Clifton," was issued by Duke Sons & Co., between 1870 and 1920, as part of the Actors and Actresses series to promote Cameo Cigarettes. This card captures an image of a performer named Clifton, likely a popular figure of her time. These cards were immensely popular and offer us a glimpse into the cultural values and entertainment preferences of the late 19th century. Consider the societal expectations placed on women, especially performers, during this period. Clifton's attire and pose reflect both the sensuality and the constraints of the era. The card is an artifact of its time, reflecting the prevailing social norms around gender and representation. Cigarette cards were collected and traded, creating a broad circulation of these images. The emotional connection between the public and performers was commodified through these cards. The image invites us to reflect on the complex interplay between public persona, private identity, and the commercialization of fame. The artwork leaves you considering the ways in which representation shapes our understanding of identity and desire.