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

"Miss Rosita" is a promotional trade card, likely made in the late 19th century by W. Duke, Sons & Co. to advertise Duke Cigarettes. These cards, featuring actors and actresses, reveal much about the cultural landscape of the time. As tobacco companies sought to expand their reach, they tapped into the burgeoning world of entertainment and celebrity culture. This particular card, with Miss Rosita, hints at the popularity and romanticization of Spanish identity within American entertainment. But, it's worth considering how these images may have perpetuated stereotypes, exoticizing and commodifying cultural identities for consumption. There's an emotional undercurrent, too. The card captures a moment of poise and performance but reminds us of the complex layers of identity, representation, and commerce. How do these historical depictions shape our contemporary understandings of identity and culture?