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

This is a monochrome photograph from the late 19th century depicting the actress Della Fox, who was popular for her performances in musical comedies. It's part of a series of cards issued by W. Duke, Sons & Co. to promote their Duke Cigarettes. The image shows Fox in an elaborate costume, possibly inspired by Asian fashion, holding a fan and posed in a dramatic stance. This type of collectible card, known as a cigarette card, was a common form of advertising in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The card is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art.