Card 443, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 1) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This card featuring actress May Brook was produced by Allen & Ginter in Richmond, Virginia, as part of a series for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. Printed in the late 19th century, this card reflects the growing commercialization of leisure and entertainment. Cards like these were not simply advertisements; they were also collectible items that provided a glimpse into the popular culture of the time. Brook's pose, attire, and the overall aesthetic of the card speak to the evolving representation of women in the public sphere, influenced by the rise of theater and performance as accessible forms of entertainment. The production of such cards also highlights the economic structures that were developing around celebrity culture, with tobacco companies leveraging the appeal of actresses to market their products. Understanding this image requires us to delve into archives of popular culture, theater history, and the advertising industry. We must consider the complex interplay between art, commerce, and the construction of identity in the late 19th century.