Fanny Rice, from the Actresses series (N203) issued by Wm. S. Kimball & Co. 1889

This is a promotional photograph of Fanny Rice, an actress of the late 19th century, produced by Wm. S. Kimball & Co. as part of a series of collectible cards included in cigarette packs. During this time, the rise of mass media and consumer culture intertwined with evolving perceptions of femininity and public life. Actresses like Rice navigated a complex landscape, where they were celebrated for their talent but also scrutinized through the lens of gendered expectations. Her confident pose and theatrical costume challenge the restrictive norms of Victorian society. These cards were not just advertisements; they provided glimpses into the lives of women who were stepping into the public sphere. They speak to the growing visibility and influence of women in entertainment, while also reflecting the commercialization of their images. As such, Rice's image captures a moment of shifting cultural dynamics, where women negotiated their identities amidst changing social attitudes.