Miss Namer, from the Actors and Actresses series (N145-8) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Duke Cigarettes 1890 - 1895

This is a black and white photographic print of Miss Namer, an actress in the late 19th century, part of a series of trading cards issued by W. Duke, Sons & Co., to promote Duke Cigarettes. The image shows Miss Namer posed in a formal, elegant dress and gloves. The card was created to be a collectible item for the general public and showcase Duke Cigarettes during a time when the cigarette was gaining popularity. This card, with its clear detail, is characteristic of the use of photomechanical printing, which allowed for the mass production of images. This example of trade card art is a unique glimpse into the cultural trends and advertising of the late 19th century.