Mlle. Nordrum, from the Actresses series (N245) issued by Kinney Brothers to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1890

This is a promotional cigarette card of Mlle. Nordrum, an actress from the late 19th century. It was produced by the Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company as part of their "Actresses" series. The image captures Nordrum in what appears to be a theatrical costume, reflecting the performative aspect of her profession and the public's fascination with actresses during this time. This card participates in the commodification of female performers, turning them into collectible objects. What does it mean to have an image reproduced for mass consumption, divorced from the real person? Consider how gender, class, and celebrity intersect in this small card. It not only reflects the status of women in the entertainment industry but also speaks to the broader cultural values and consumerism of the era. It’s a quiet reminder of how identity can be packaged and sold.