Molly Mack, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 1) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This is a trade card from the "Actors and Actresses" series, created by Allen & Ginter between 1885 and 1891, featuring a portrait of Molly Mack. This card is a prime example of ephemera, a category of collectible material associated with a specific event or activity. The card showcases Molly Mack in a theatrical pose, with her name and the "Virginia Brights Cigarettes" brand prominently featured. The card is a testament to the use of celebrity endorsements in advertising, a practice that remains prevalent today. The Metropolitan Museum of Art houses this card, which measures 2 3/4 x 1 3/8 in. (7 x 3.5 cm).