Modjeska, from the Actors and Actresses series (N171) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1886 - 1890

This cabinet card, part of the "Actors and Actresses" series produced by Goodwin & Company for Old Judge Cigarettes, features a portrait of the Polish-American actress Helena Modjeska. Created between 1886 and 1890, the image captures Modjeska in a contemplative pose, her gaze directed away from the viewer, adding to the sense of intimacy of the portrait. The card is a prime example of the popular trend of collecting celebrity images in the late 19th century, and the image serves as a testament to Modjeska's fame and enduring legacy in the American theater. The card, which is part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art collection, provides a glimpse into the world of American theater history and the fascinating intersection of entertainment and commercialism.