Miss Billy Barlow Dressed as Oriental Lady of the 18th Century, from the set Actors and Actresses, Second Series (N71) for Duke brand cigarettes 1888 - 1890

"Miss Billy Barlow Dressed as Oriental Lady of the 18th Century" is a chromolithograph trade card from the "Actors and Actresses" series, produced by W. Duke, Sons & Co. for their Duke brand cigarettes in the late 19th century. This charming card depicts a young woman in an elaborate costume, likely referencing a popular theatrical production or character from the era. The trade card showcases the trend of using celebrity imagery to promote commercial products during this period, illustrating the growing connection between entertainment and consumerism. The image, a prime example of late 19th-century chromolithography, uses bright colors and meticulous detail to capture the likeness of the subject. This card, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, serves as a valuable window into the history of advertising and popular culture.