[Seated actress dressed in loose white gown], from the Actors and Actresses series (N145-8) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Duke Cigarettes 1890 - 1895

This 19th-century photograph, from the "Actors and Actresses" series, is a promotional card for Duke Cigarettes. It features a seated actress dressed in a loose white gown, posed against a plain backdrop, likely to highlight her image. The card is a prime example of the commercial use of photography to promote brand identity and engage consumers during the late 19th century. The simple yet elegant composition of the card adds to its timeless appeal.