Lillian Russell in Colors of Manhattan Yacht Club, from the Yacht Colors of the World series (N140) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Honest Long Cut Tobacco 1890

This small chromolithograph was created in the United States between 1870 and 1920 by W. Duke, Sons & Co., as part of a series of tobacco cards. Its subject, the actress and singer Lillian Russell, is shown in the colors of the Manhattan Yacht Club. The image is framed by golden oars and ropes, with a yacht club flag above her. The image is interesting as an example of the use of celebrity endorsement in advertising. The latter half of the 19th century saw the rise of mass media and consumer culture, and it was common for tobacco companies to include collectible cards in their products. The cards often featured popular actresses, athletes, or other celebrities, in an effort to appeal to consumers. This particular card suggests the cultural associations of glamour, leisure and the exclusive world of yachting with the tobacco brand being advertised. Further research into the archives of advertising history and popular culture would reveal the broader context for understanding such cultural ephemera.