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

This card featuring Daisy Dorr, from the Actors and Actresses series, was made by Allen & Ginter for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. Such cards were common in the late 19th century in the United States. They offered a glimpse into a burgeoning celebrity culture fueled by mass media. The image itself is a carefully constructed representation. Dorr's refined profile, elaborate hairstyle, and ornate dress speak to the aspirational values of the era. These cards were not just advertisements; they were cultural artifacts that reflected and shaped social norms around beauty and success. The commercialization of art is evident here, with the packaging actively shaping artistic and cultural values. To fully appreciate this card, we need to consider the history of advertising, the rise of celebrity culture, and the social role of women in the late 19th century. By consulting archives, periodicals, and other primary sources, we can better understand the complex interplay of art, commerce, and society.