Mlle. Adelaid Emerson, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 1) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This is a trade card from the *Actors and Actresses* series, created by Allen & Ginter for Virginia Brights Cigarettes in the late 19th century. Featuring a portrait of actress Mlle. Adelaid Emerson, the card is printed in sepia tones. It showcases Emerson holding a tambourine, highlighting the popular theatrical imagery of the time. These cards, often collected and traded, were a form of advertising, and their collectible nature ensured their popularity. The Metropolitan Museum of Art houses this small, yet significant, piece of American advertising and theatrical history.