Rose Coghlan, from World's Beauties, Series 1 (N26) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

Here we see a chromolithograph of Rose Coghlan, part of the "World's Beauties" series by Allen & Ginter Cigarettes. Note how the portrait is constructed with a delicate balance of color and form. The artist uses a soft palette, predominantly pinks and creams, to render Coghlan's features. The smooth gradations of color on her face give a three-dimensional quality, while the intricate detailing of her hair and dress adds texture. The composition is simple, focusing on the subject's profile against a muted backdrop. However, the formal elements extend beyond mere representation. This image, mass-produced for cigarette cards, reflects the late 19th-century obsession with beauty and celebrity. The chromolithographic technique, with its emphasis on color and detail, elevates Coghlan's image, transforming her into an idealized figure. The card functions as a sign, encoding cultural values related to femininity, status, and consumerism. It reflects not just Coghlan’s individual allure, but also the broader societal constructs of beauty and fame.