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

This is an advertising card for Virginia Brights Cigarettes, featuring Lubra, an opera singer, made by Allen & Ginter. These cards, popular in the late 19th century, offer a glimpse into the cultural values and commercial strategies of the time. The image of Lubra, poised and elegantly dressed, tells us about the representation of women in the public eye. As a performer, she occupied a space that was both admired and scrutinized. Cigarette cards were aimed at a male audience and often featured women in stereotypical roles. However, Lubra's profession and confident demeanor challenge simplistic interpretations of femininity. What does it mean to commodify an artist's image? The card invites us to reflect on the relationship between art, commerce, and identity. It serves as a reminder of the complex ways in which individuals are shaped by the society they inhabit.