Actress wearing wide pink and black sash, from Stars of the Stage, Second Series (N130) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Honest Long Cut Tobacco 1891

This small chromolithograph, by W. Duke, Sons & Co., captures an actress of the late 19th century in vibrant hues. The composition, dominated by her figure, features a play of colours, from the pastel yellow jacket to the striking pink and black sash, all set against a muted background. The actress's attire and pose invite us to consider the semiotics of performance. Note how the sash, with its bold colour contrast, cinches her waist, creating a focal point that draws the eye. The artist uses a combination of primary colours and curvilinear shapes to convey a sense of liveliness. This contrasts with the industrial context of its creation as a promotional item for tobacco. The actress becomes a signifier, reflecting cultural values and ideals of beauty, even as the artwork operates within the commercial sphere. The formal elements of colour and composition not only present an aesthetic image, but also engage in a dialogue about representation, performance, and consumer culture.