Lilian Wren, from the Actresses series (N245) issued by Kinney Brothers to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1890

This is a promotional card for Sweet Caporal Cigarettes, made by Kinney Brothers, which would have been included in cigarette packs in the United States. The card features Lilian Wren, an actress of the time. These cards weren't just innocent freebies; they were a clever marketing strategy. In the late 19th century, tobacco companies were in fierce competition, and these cards, featuring actresses, athletes, and other figures, were a way to build brand loyalty. The images, often idealized and glamorous, tapped into the public's fascination with celebrity culture and offered a glimpse into a world of entertainment and leisure. To understand the image's full impact, we have to delve into the history of advertising, consumer culture, and the role of women in society at the time. We might look at theatre programmes and census records. What was Lilian Wren's stage persona? How did it relate to the brand identity of Sweet Caporal Cigarettes? The meaning of art shifts with time and context.