Card Number 236, Miss Lawrence, from the Actors and Actresses series (N145-2) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Cross Cut Cigarettes 1880s

This commercial card was produced by W. Duke, Sons & Co. around the turn of the century, as part of an advertising campaign for Cross Cut Cigarettes. The sepia tone lends a nostalgic air, but it’s the composition that truly catches the eye. Note how the diagonal line of the hammock elegantly bisects the frame. It’s a simple yet effective strategy for drawing the viewer’s gaze towards Miss Lawrence, who reclines gracefully. The textual elements, strategically placed, don’t just serve as a brand promotion but also contribute to the overall structure of the piece. In its essence, the card reflects a moment in time when advertising was becoming increasingly sophisticated, using elements of art and popular culture to create a connection with consumers. What appears to be a simple promotional item is, in fact, a complex interplay of visual elements and cultural codes, inviting ongoing examination and interpretation.