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

This is a collectible trading card from the "Actors and Actresses" series produced by Allen & Ginter for Virginia Brights Cigarettes between 1885 and 1891. Featuring a sepia-toned photograph of actress Annie Somerville, the card depicts her in a theatrical costume, likely from a play. The card showcases the popular trend of using celebrities to market products during the late 19th century. These cards, considered early examples of ephemera, are now sought after by collectors for their historical significance and insight into the world of 19th-century entertainment.