Bell Black, from the Actors and Actresses series (N145-8) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Duke Cigarettes 1890 - 1895

"Bell Black," from the "Actors and Actresses" series is a late 19th-century, sepia-toned photograph produced by W. Duke, Sons & Co. to promote their Duke Cigarettes. The image depicts actress Bell Black in a theatrical pose, with her gown and lace sleeves prominently displayed. The photograph captures the popular culture of the late 19th century and showcases the burgeoning trend of cigarette advertising using celebrity endorsements. This small-format photo, typical of the trade card style, would have been widely distributed during the period.