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

This is a carte de visite, a type of small photograph popular in the 19th century. This particular image, "Mary Severance," is from the "Actors and Actresses" series, produced by Allen & Ginter for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. These collectible cards featured portraits of popular stage performers of the time, helping to promote the brand and offer a glimpse into the world of entertainment during the late 19th century. The portrait shows Mary Severance, a well-known actress of the era, in a theatrical pose, holding her chin with one hand. The image, now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, provides a valuable snapshot of a bygone era and a famous performer.