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

This is a "trade card," a collectible card from the late 19th century, featuring an image of a woman in a theatrical costume. These cards were produced to advertise Virginia Brights Cigarettes and featured actresses, actors, and other performers. The card is from the "Actors and Actresses" series, and depicts Mlle. Carmen, a performer in Paris, in a costume that likely references the opera Carmen. The card's small size is typical of trade cards, and it is a popular example of the genre.