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

Editor: This is a curious artifact from the late 19th century – a small albumen print titled "Mlle. Croizet, Paris" by Allen & Ginter, originally a cigarette card. I’m struck by the everyday nature of the subject juxtaposed with what I assume to be a product endorsement. It makes me wonder: how do you interpret this seemingly simple image within its original cultural context? Curator: It *is* peculiar, isn't it? To see art playing commercial wingman. I suppose this is the late 1800's version of when celebrities grace soft drink adverts today! Back then, these cards, which often leaned into the "Japonisme" art movement that celebrated everyday objects and portraiture, acted as tiny portals into other lives, a way to connect with celebrities that felt immediate, yet detached from true interaction. Note that even though it looks like a photograph, it also possesses qualities of a drawing. Albumen prints could yield images that were highly detailed. Editor: So, this image served to create both aspirational and attainable desires at the same time? Is that a good way of thinking of it? Curator: Precisely. Mlle. Croizet isn't a goddess on a pedestal; she is right there, packaged along with tobacco; simultaneously celebrated and possessed. You get a little portrait of a star, and the promise of refined pleasure. Also, it is kind of funny, in retrospect. Knowing how cigarettes are viewed now. What did one card communicate in a set? And who chose to preserve it? Editor: That's a great point. It also emphasizes how objects acquire new significance through time and collecting practices. This has made me completely rethink promotional cards! Curator: Likewise. The hidden stories objects contain always blow my mind. What initially seemed like a simple commercial card actually reveals fascinating intersections of celebrity, consumerism, and artistic style!