Mlle. Basco, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 8) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This photographic print of Mlle. Basco from the Actors and Actresses series, was likely created by Allen & Ginter as a trade card. The sepia tones and the subject's pose give it a soft, romantic feel that is typical of the time. The composition of the print is simple and classical, emphasizing the sitter's features and costume. The subdued palette and focus on tonal variation invite us to consider how the photograph functions as a sign. It's not just a portrait, but also a representation of societal values and tastes related to performance and celebrity. The photograph, through its deliberate construction and the sitter's carefully controlled appearance, speaks to the cultural codes and conventions of its era. It challenges us to look beyond the surface and consider how such images operate within a larger network of meaning, reflecting and shaping social identities.