Card 720, Miss Carroll, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 1) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

"Card 720, Miss Carroll," is a collectible card from the "Actors and Actresses" series produced by Allen & Ginter for Virginia Brights Cigarettes between 1885 and 1891. The card features a portrait of a woman identified as Miss Carroll, posing in a theatrical setting, likely intended to evoke a sense of glamour and allure, reflecting the popularity of the stage during this era. The card is a prime example of the "trade card" genre, where companies used collectible cards to advertise their products, in this case, cigarettes. The card, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of advertising, entertainment, and cultural trends of the late 19th century.