Ruth Ward, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 8) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This small photograph of Ruth Ward was produced in the late 19th century by Allen & Ginter as a promotional item for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. These cards were part of a series featuring actors and actresses, capitalizing on the burgeoning celebrity culture and the increasing popularity of both tobacco and theater. The image presents Ward in costume, leaning casually against a classical column, evoking a sense of established sophistication despite the relative novelty of the image production format. In a time when printed images were becoming more accessible, these cards democratized access to celebrity imagery. Understanding this card requires considering the social function of advertising in shaping public perception. These cigarette cards were not just about selling a product; they were about selling an aspirational lifestyle. For further insight, exploring archives of advertising ephemera and theater history will shed light on the social dynamics that made these images so appealing.