May Hart, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 1) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This is a photograph of May Hart, printed by Allen & Ginter for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. These cards, common in the late 19th century, offer a glimpse into the cultural values of the time, particularly regarding the representation of women and entertainment. May Hart, a child actress known for playing male roles, is seen here in a gender-bending pose, which provides a fascinating perspective on Victorian gender roles. The image complicates conventional representations of femininity, inviting us to consider the fluidity of gender identity on stage and in society. Hart's androgynous presentation was both titillating and unsettling in the context of Victorian expectations. These cigarette cards were not just advertisements; they were carriers of cultural values, subtly shaping perceptions of beauty, fame, and desire. The commercialization of May Hart’s image reflects a tension between admiration and objectification, which speaks to the complex ways in which women performers were viewed and treated.