Julia Marlow, from the Actresses series (N245) issued by Kinney Brothers to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1890

This is Julia Marlow, from the Actresses series, a promotional card created by Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company for Sweet Caporal Cigarettes. These cards, distributed in the late 19th century, reflect a period where celebrity endorsements began influencing consumer culture, and reveal much about the social and cultural values of the time. Julia Marlow, a prominent stage actress, embodies ideals of feminine beauty and talent which were considered desirable and marketable at the time. Marlow achieved great success in her career, particularly known for her Shakespearean roles, a traditionally male dominated arena. Yet, she also existed in a world where her image was used to sell tobacco products. She herself once said: “I was ambitious. I wanted to be great.” The card miniaturizes and commodifies Marlow into a collectible item, reflecting an era when women, even accomplished ones, were often reduced to objects of consumption. The Actresses series is an interesting lens through which to view the dynamics of gender, fame, and consumerism in the late 19th century.