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

This trade card, promoting Virginia Brights Cigarettes, presents Lucy Emerson, a popular actress of her time. Observe her posture: arms crossed, a gesture that can signify defiance or self-possession. Consider this pose, echoing across millennia. We see it in ancient sculptures of protective deities, Renaissance portraits of powerful figures, and even in modern advertisements. The gesture, seemingly simple, resonates with a deep-seated human need for control and assurance. Yet, the context shifts. In a classical statue, crossed arms might denote divine authority. Here, with Lucy Emerson, it suggests a modern, independent woman, confident in her public persona. It is a fascinating evolution. This posture, laden with accumulated meanings, continues to engage our subconscious, reminding us of the enduring power of visual symbols to communicate across time.