Card Number 319, Mlle. Anyibous, from the Actors and Actresses series (N145-5) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Cameo Cigarettes 1880s

This small card was made in the United States by W. Duke, Sons & Co. as a promotional item for Cameo Cigarettes. It features Mlle. Anyibous, an actress, posed in what seems like a theatrical setting. The card's design offers a glimpse into the cultural landscape of the late 19th century. The company used popular actresses to market cigarettes, reflecting a growing advertising industry that tied products to celebrity and aspiration. Such cards were collected and traded, creating a direct link between consumer culture and the performing arts. By examining these cards, alongside company records, theatre archives, and period publications, we can uncover insights into the social dynamics of the time, especially regarding gender, celebrity, and the rise of consumerism. It’s through this kind of contextual research that we can fully appreciate the role of art within the broader history of culture and commerce.