Jas. T. Powers, from the Actresses series (N245) issued by Kinney Brothers to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1890

This is a photograph of Jas. T. Powers, from the Actresses series, made around the late 19th century by Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company as a promotional item for Sweet Caporal Cigarettes. These cards were a clever way to increase sales, capitalizing on the popularity of actresses and the burgeoning culture of celebrity. Consider the social context: in an era before mass media, these cards offered a glimpse into the glamorous world of theater and entertainment. The actresses depicted were tastemakers, their images shaping ideals of beauty and style. The Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company was tapping into the growing consumer culture, using art to build brand recognition. To truly understand these cards, we might delve into business archives, theater programs, and fashion magazines of the period. What we learn is that even a small image like this offers a window into the economic and cultural landscape of its time.