Lotta in the Costume of a Japanese Lady, from the set Actors and Actresses, First Series (N70) for Duke brand cigarettes 1888 - 1889

This small chromolithograph created by W. Duke, Sons & Co., features Lotta, an actress, adorned in what is described as a traditional Japanese lady's costume. The butterfly ornament in her hair is most intriguing. In Japanese culture, butterflies are rich in symbolism, often representing transformation, joy, and the souls of the living and the dead. One cannot help but recall how Psyche, in ancient Greek mythology, is depicted with butterfly wings, symbolizing the soul's metamorphosis. These symbols resonate on a deep, subconscious level, reminding us of the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth. The butterfly reappears across cultures, shifting in meaning, yet always evoking potent emotions tied to change and the ephemeral nature of existence. The actress becomes a vessel, embodying the hopes, dreams, and fears of those who observe her. This cultural exchange, however superficial, reminds us of the interconnectedness of human experience, revealing how symbols carry emotional and psychological weight across time and space.