Card Number 90, Lillian Russell, from the Actors and Actresses series (N145-2) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Cross Cut Cigarettes 1880s

This is "Card Number 90, Lillian Russell" from the Actors and Actresses series, created around the turn of the century by W. Duke, Sons & Co. At first glance, one is struck by its monochromatic sepia tones and the symmetrical balance of the actress’s full-length pose. The texture of the card itself, aged and slightly worn, contributes to a feeling of nostalgia, invoking the era of its creation. This carefully constructed image transcends mere advertisement. Russell's placement—almost centered—and the theatrical gesture of her hand, suggest a staged performance. The soft gradations in tone, from the highlights on her face to the muted background, create depth within the small format. Here, signs and cultural codes converge to form an image that not only promotes cigarettes but also elevates the status of actresses in popular culture. The card functions aesthetically and as a historical artifact, capturing a moment in time. Its value lies not just in its visual appeal, but in its ability to open ongoing interpretation and re-interpretation of an era defined by rapid change and the rise of celebrity culture.