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

This is a trade card from the "Actors and Actresses" series created by Allen & Ginter for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. The card, which dates from between 1885 and 1891, features a portrait of Mlle. Salles, a Parisian actress. The image depicts Mlle. Salles in profile, wearing a lavishly decorated headdress and necklace, her face turned towards the viewer. The trade card was produced in the late 19th century as a promotional tool for Virginia Brights Cigarettes, capitalizing on the popularity of theatre and performers to attract consumers. The Metropolitan Museum of Art houses this piece, a testament to its historical and cultural significance.