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

Curator: What immediately strikes me is the delicate tonal range in this print; it’s almost entirely variations on sepia. The composition seems quite simple, centered, with the figure filling most of the space. Editor: Indeed, let’s situate this piece. What we have here is a promotional card dating from around 1890-1895, part of a series titled “Actors and Actresses” produced by W. Duke, Sons & Co. to advertise Duke Cigarettes. These cards, combining photography and printmaking, were immensely popular as collectibles at the time. Curator: You’re right, understanding its origin certainly enriches its context. The focus is clearly on the figure. Notice the way the light subtly catches the ruffles of her costume. This gives a sense of volume, particularly around her skirt, despite the limited contrast. Editor: The actress depicted here is Mlle. Mante. Cards like this weren't just about selling cigarettes; they were actively shaping public perception and contributing to celebrity culture, democratizing access to imagery of prominent personalities. Mante, by having her image reproduced and distributed so widely, cemented her status. Curator: It’s interesting to think of celebrity constructed and circulated through tobacco products. Thinking about the pose—somewhat demure but still presented for public consumption—it reads as an intriguing play with visibility. Editor: Precisely! The card encapsulates a tension between private identity and public image, fueled by both the entertainment industry and consumer culture. Curator: It’s a tiny object holding big cultural significance. My reading now is of a powerful and knowing female figure. Editor: Ultimately, these cards speak volumes about the birth of modern consumerism and its symbiotic relationship with the performing arts. What might appear like a simple portrait reveals profound connections across entertainment, advertising, and societal values.