Card Number 206, Lizzie Hughs, from the Actors and Actresses series (N145-7) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Duke Cigarettes 1880s

Editor: Here we have a portrait of Lizzie Hughs, card number 206, part of the "Actors and Actresses" series from the 1880s, printed by W. Duke, Sons & Co. It’s a photograph on a small card, seemingly made as a promotional item. I'm struck by the overt commercial message combined with what seems to be an intimate portrait of an actress. What's your interpretation? Curator: It's fascinating to consider how tobacco companies utilized popular figures to market their products. These cards represent a crucial moment in advertising and the popularization of celebrity culture. Think about it – mass-produced images of actresses, accessible with the purchase of cigarettes, entering homes and shaping perceptions of fame. What kind of impact do you think that has? Editor: It feels like a democratization of celebrity, but also a co-opting of art for purely commercial purposes. This artwork, for want of a better word, exists only to sell cigarettes. Does this diminish its artistic value? Curator: "Artistic value" becomes a complicated term here. While it may lack the intentionality of fine art, its cultural significance is undeniable. These cards are historical artifacts, reflecting social values, celebrity worship, and the aggressive marketing strategies of the late 19th century. We can study its mass appeal and public reception – which in itself gives value to the object. Editor: I see what you mean. It’s almost more valuable as a lens through which to view the social norms and marketing strategies of the time, than simply as art itself. It’s strange to think an art object could promote an industry with such dire health impacts though. Curator: Exactly. By understanding this visual culture, we gain insight into the complexities of how businesses and popular culture were intertwined in the past, with repercussions still felt today. A critical understanding is essential for navigating today's media landscape. Editor: Definitely given me something to reflect on. It makes you think about advertising then and now. Thanks for sharing your insight!