Card Number 357, Pauline Hall, from the Actors and Actresses series (N145-5) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Cameo Cigarettes 1880s

This black and white photograph is a trade card from the 1880s promoting Duke's Cameo Cigarettes. The card depicts actress Pauline Hall standing in a theatrical pose, likely in costume, with a backdrop that suggests an outdoor setting. This type of trade card was a popular marketing technique in the late 19th century, using the image of famous personalities to increase brand recognition and appeal to consumers. The card is a prime example of ephemera, a term used to describe items of cultural or historical interest, especially those created for commercial purposes. The trade card was issued by W. Duke, Sons & Co. who were in the tobacco industry and sought to create a memorable visual for their brand. The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City houses this small card which measures 2 11/16 × 1 3/8 in. (6.8 × 3.5 cm). This piece provides a glimpse into the history of American advertising and offers a visual record of a popular actress from the 19th century.