Montbazon, Des Bouffes, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 1) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

Allen & Ginter produced this small lithograph for Virginia Brights Cigarettes, as part of a series on actors and actresses, sometime in the late 19th century. These cards were essentially advertisements, but they also speak to the changing social status of actors, and the rise of celebrity culture. The image presents us with "Montbazon, des Bouffes," presumably an actress performing at the Parisian theatre, Théâtre des Bouffes-Parisiens. This venue, founded in the mid-19th century, was known for its comic operas. This card, therefore, alludes to a specific cultural institution and a particular form of popular entertainment. The actress is shown in costume, striking a pose that suggests both confidence and accessibility. The Virginia Brights brand, by associating itself with this figure, is attempting to imbue its product with the glamour and allure of the theatre. To fully understand the social context of these cards, it's necessary to consider the history of advertising, the growth of the tobacco industry, and the evolving role of women in the performing arts.