Ida Mulle, from the Actors and Actresses series (N171) for Gypsy Queen Cigarettes 1886 - 1890

This card featuring Ida Mulle, from the Actors and Actresses series, was created by Goodwin & Company as a promotional item for Gypsy Queen Cigarettes. These cards were a common marketing tool in the late 19th century in America, reflecting the growing commercialization of leisure and entertainment. The series underscores the increasing celebrity culture around actors and actresses, turning them into commodities. What's striking is the democratizing effect of these cards. Suddenly, access to these figures wasn't limited to theatergoers. The 'Gypsy Queen' brand name also shows us how companies at this time freely appropriated exotic and romanticized images for commercial gain. Looking into sources like trade journals, company records, and social commentaries can help us understand the cultural context of these images. This card is not just a portrait; it's a window into the social and economic landscape of its time.