May Hanley, from the Actresses series (N246), Type 2, issued by Kinney Brothers to promote Sporting Extra Cigarettes 1888 - 1892

This small card featuring May Hanley, from the Actresses series, was produced by the Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company as a promotional item for Sporting Extra Cigarettes. These cards, dating back to the late 19th century, offer a glimpse into the cultural values and the commodification of femininity during the Gilded Age. May Hanley, as an actress, occupied a unique position in society. Actresses were public figures, both admired and scrutinized, and their images were circulated widely through various media, including these tobacco cards. The Kinney Brothers' series reflects the era’s fascination with celebrity and beauty, but it also reveals the underlying commercial interests that shaped these representations. The card flattens Hanley’s identity, turning her into a desirable image. As we consider the historical context, think about the complexities of female performers during this time, navigating public life amidst societal expectations. The mass production and distribution of these cards also speaks to the emerging consumer culture, where images of women were used to sell products, intertwining identity, commerce, and desire.