Miss Tobe, from the Actors and Actresses series (N145-8) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Duke Cigarettes 1890 - 1895

This is a promotional card of Miss Tobe, an actress, made by Duke Sons & Co. to advertise Duke Cigarettes. Observe the lace collar around Miss Tobe's neck, a delicate yet powerful symbol of femininity and status during the late 19th century. Lace, with its intricate patterns and delicate craftsmanship, goes back to the Renaissance where it was not just a mere decoration but a potent signifier of wealth, refinement, and virtue. Consider how lace appears in Dutch Golden Age portraits, adorning the necks and wrists of women, reflecting their position in society. Here, Miss Tobe's lace collar connects her to this lineage of portrayed women, adding an air of sophistication and grace to her image, designed to captivate and entice viewers. The cigarette company subtly equates their product with beauty and status. The image of lace and its connotations cycle through history, evolving and resurfacing, reflecting the collective desires and aspirations of each era.