Cecile James, from the Actors and Actresses series (N145-8) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Duke Cigarettes 1890 - 1895

This card featuring Cecile James was produced by W. Duke, Sons & Co. around the turn of the century as a promotional item for their cigarettes. Part of a series depicting actors and actresses, the card offers a glimpse into the cultural landscape of the late 19th century, a time when celebrity endorsements were gaining traction as a marketing strategy. The image itself, with Cecile James reclining elegantly on a chaise lounge, speaks to the prevailing social norms and ideals of beauty. What's fascinating here is the intersection of art, commerce, and popular culture. Tobacco companies were among the first to recognize the power of visual media in shaping public perception. These cards, distributed with cigarette packs, turned everyday items into vehicles for advertising. Historical archives, marketing publications, and social histories of the period can provide further insights into the cultural significance of these objects. By examining such resources, we can better understand the complex relationship between art, advertising, and society in the late 19th century.