Card 523, Lydia Thompson, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 1) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This is a trade card from the *Actors and Actresses* series, produced by Allen & Ginter for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. The card features a photograph of actress Lydia Thompson, known for her work in burlesque theater. This trade card, measuring 2 3/4 x 1 3/8 inches, is part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection. Printed between 1885-1891, it's a fascinating glimpse into the world of 19th-century entertainment and the popular culture of the time. The series, featuring portraits of famous actors and actresses, were distributed as promotional items to advertise Virginia Brights Cigarettes.