Josie Hall, from the Actors and Actresses series (N171) for Gypsy Queen Cigarettes 1886 - 1890

This is a black and white photograph of the actress Josie Hall, likely taken between 1886 and 1890. It was created by Goodwin & Company, a New York City-based firm known for its trade cards, particularly for its "Actors and Actresses" series which was commissioned for Gypsy Queen Cigarettes. This small card (measuring just 6.9 x 3.5 cm) features Hall in a casual pose, leaning against a column, dressed in a jacket and trousers, looking directly at the viewer. The photograph is a good example of how trade cards were used to promote brands during the late 19th century, often using popular figures to attract attention.