From the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 5) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This small card featuring an actress was produced in the United States by Allen & Ginter for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. The series connects the marketing of tobacco with the burgeoning popularity of stage performers. The image creates meaning through the use of cultural references and historical associations. Note how the actress is presented: she is adorned with a feathered headpiece and ornate costume, positioned in a staged pose. Her confident gaze, combined with the theatrical props, would have appealed to the aspirational desires of consumers. This card reflects the social conditions of the late 19th century, a time of rapid industrialization and urbanization when celebrity culture was on the rise. The Virginia Brights brand capitalized on this phenomenon by associating their product with glamour and sophistication. Understanding the social and institutional context of this card requires delving into the history of advertising, popular entertainment, and consumer culture. Further research might explore the biographies of the actresses featured, the marketing strategies of tobacco companies, and the cultural impact of celebrity endorsements.