Card 904, Mary Anderson, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 2) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This is a trade card of the actress Mary Anderson, made in the late 19th century by Allen & Ginter, for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. It's a small paper print, a photomechanical reproduction, that would have been included in cigarette packs as a collectible. The card’s material and production speak volumes about the culture of its time. Photomechanical reproduction allowed for mass production, making images accessible to a broad audience. Cigarette cards like this one were a form of early advertising, linking the glamour of the stage with the everyday act of smoking. The choice of Mary Anderson as the subject reflects the growing celebrity culture of the era, where actors and actresses were among the most recognizable faces. The material of the card itself, cheap and easily produced, contrasts with the artistry it depicts. It is a reminder of the vast amount of labor that went into creating both the image and the product it advertised. By considering the processes and materials involved, we can see how this modest card opens a window onto the social and economic dynamics of its time.