Mrs. J.B. Potter, from the Actors and Actresses series (N171) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1886 - 1890

This small photographic card of Mrs. J.B. Potter, was produced by Goodwin & Company, circa 1880s, as part of a series to advertise Old Judge Cigarettes. It is dominated by sepia tones that create a sense of nostalgia. The composition, although simple, is carefully arranged, featuring a full-length portrait of the actress against a floral backdrop. The tension between the soft, romantic background and the rigid posture of the figure creates an intriguing contrast. The actress's corset and tailored dress reflect societal constraints and expectations, while the theatrical setting hints at her performative identity. The card functions as a sign, weaving together the semiotics of celebrity, consumerism, and gender roles. The photograph's muted tones and carefully constructed composition serve as a powerful visual argument, linking the image of Mrs. Potter to the Old Judge Cigarettes brand, creating a layered cultural artefact that continues to invite interpretation.