Lillian Russell, from the Actors and Actresses series (N171) for Gypsy Queen Cigarettes 1886 - 1890

This is a carte-de-visite, a small photograph format popular in the 19th century. It depicts Lillian Russell, a renowned American actress and singer, as part of the "Actors and Actresses" series for Gypsy Queen Cigarettes. Created by Goodwin & Company, the image features a faded portrait of Russell, likely taken between 1886-1890, showcasing her in a theatrical pose. The photograph's condition, with visible fading and staining, reflects its age and suggests the challenges of preserving early photographic materials. These cards were distributed widely and are a fascinating glimpse into the world of late 19th-century popular culture.