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

This 1885 - 1891 trade card by Allen & Ginter features a portrait of an actress, Borris, from Paris. It is part of the "Actors and Actresses" series, which was designed as an advertisement for Virginia Brights cigarettes. The card showcases a black and white photograph of Borris in an elegant dress, a fur-trimmed coat and hat, with a somber expression. These cards are collectible and are part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection in New York City. They are considered examples of ephemera and were widely circulated in the late 19th century as a form of advertising.