Mlle. Ilberte, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 8) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This sepia-toned image of Mlle. Ilberte is from a series of promotional cards for Virginia Brights Cigarettes by Allen & Ginter. These cards, small and intimate, were designed to be collected and traded, reflecting the burgeoning celebrity culture of the late 19th century. Ilberte, an actress, is depicted with a gaze both demure and knowing. Her identity, like that of many actresses of the time, was carefully constructed, balancing the respectability required by society with the allure demanded by the stage. These cards offer a glimpse into the complex negotiations of femininity and fame during this era. The commercial context of the image is important. Actresses, often seen as transgressive figures, were used to sell cigarettes. These cards reveal the intricate ways in which gender, class, and commerce intertwined, shaping both the performers' identities and the desires of the consuming public. This image captures a moment of poised ambiguity, inviting us to consider the multifaceted nature of representation and spectatorship.