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

This is "Fuller," a photograph from the Actors and Actresses series (N171) for Gypsy Queen Cigarettes, made by Goodwin & Company. The sepia tone immediately evokes a sense of nostalgia and a bygone era. "Fuller" fills the frame, her presence accentuated by the stark contrast between her pale costume and the darker tones of her jacket and boots. This contrast draws the viewer's eye upwards, towards her face, which is framed by a soft, feathered hat. The composition is meticulously balanced, creating a sense of order and visual harmony. This image, like many from this period, presents a constructed identity. Note how the theatrical garb and posed stance suggest a deliberate performance of femininity. The actress's image is presented as a commodity, not just as entertainment but also to sell cigarettes. The photograph challenges fixed notions of identity, hinting at the fluidity and performative nature of the self. Ultimately, the power of this image lies in its ability to capture a fleeting moment in time. The careful arrangement of the image encourages us to question the representation of identity and the cultural values embedded within commercial imagery.