Mlle. Bie, Paris, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 1) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This is a black and white photograph from the "Actors and Actresses" series for Virginia Brights Cigarettes, created by Allen & Ginter between 1885-1891. The photograph features Mlle. Bie, a Parisian actress, posed in a theatrical costume, seated on a pedestal with a feathered hat and a jeweled purse. The image is a classic example of a "trade card" - a type of advertisement commonly used in the 19th century. The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City houses this card, which measures 2 3/4 x 1 3/8 inches.