Lillian Russell, from the Actresses series (N245) issued by Kinney Brothers to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1890

Editor: This is a print from 1890 titled "Lillian Russell, from the Actresses series," published by Kinney Brothers to advertise Sweet Caporal Cigarettes. It’s a portrait of the actress Lillian Russell. There's something so intriguing about seeing a famous face used to sell something. What are your thoughts on this? Curator: Well, consider the context. These cards were inserted into cigarette packs, making art – or at least the image of it – accessible to a much wider audience than ever before. This portrait serves not only to promote cigarettes, but also to popularize the image of a celebrity, essentially creating a consumable image culture. Editor: So, this card is as much about celebrity culture as it is about selling tobacco? Curator: Absolutely. And notice the pictorialist style, almost romanticizing the subject. These images weren't just about representation; they were about crafting an ideal, a fantasy. These cards provided glimpses into a world of glamour and beauty, accessible through purchasing a product. Editor: I see what you mean. The soft focus and sepia tones definitely lend it an aspirational feel. Was it common for businesses to leverage celebrities to this degree? Curator: Increasingly so. This period marks a shift where celebrity endorsements begin to gain significant traction. It reflects a broader transformation in advertising and consumer culture, with images of performers contributing significantly to the appeal of consumer goods. Consider the political implications: what values is Kinney Brothers selling along with those cigarettes? Editor: So it’s not just selling a product, but a whole lifestyle associated with fame and beauty. I hadn't really considered that. Curator: Precisely. Understanding these cultural connections helps us read these objects critically, looking beyond the surface to see the power dynamics and societal values at play. Editor: That's a totally new way to look at something that seemed pretty simple at first glance. Thanks!