From the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 5) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This is a "trade card" from the "Actors and Actresses" series produced by Allen & Ginter for Virginia Brights Cigarettes between 1885 and 1891. The card features a black and white photograph of a female performer in a theatrical costume. Trade cards were popular in the late 19th century, often used as advertisements and collectibles. This card is a good example of how companies used images of popular figures to promote their products. The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York houses this small but significant piece of American cultural history.