Card Number 115, Lillian Russell, from the Actors and Actresses series (N145-2) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Cross Cut Cigarettes 1880s

This is a trade card from the late 19th century that was used by W. Duke, Sons & Co. to promote their brand of Cross Cut Cigarettes. The card features a portrait of the famous American actress Lillian Russell (1861-1922) seated and gazing off to the side, wearing a white dress with lace trim and a large hat. The card, measuring only 2 5/8 x 1 7/16 inches, is a prime example of the collectible trade cards popular in the late 19th century. These cards are known for featuring popular figures of the time and being used as a marketing tactic.