Lureau, Opera, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 1) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This card portraying Lureau, an opera singer, was made in the United States as part of a series of collectible cards for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. These small cards functioned as promotional items, connecting consumer culture with the world of entertainment. The late 19th century saw the rise of celebrity culture, and opera singers like Lureau were among the most celebrated figures. The card captures her in a staged, theatrical pose, holding a mirror, reinforcing the spectacle and glamour associated with opera. The very circulation of these cards reflects a growing consumer economy and the increasing importance of advertising in shaping public perception. To understand the full context of this image, we can consult archives of popular culture, theater programs, and advertising history from this period. These resources help us better understand the complex interplay between art, commerce, and society.