Lotta, from the Actors and Actresses series (N171) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1886 - 1890

This is "Lotta", a photograph from the Actors and Actresses series made in the late 19th century by Goodwin & Company for Old Judge Cigarettes. These cards, distributed with cigarette packs, offer a fascinating glimpse into the cult of celebrity and performance during that era. Lotta Crabtree, the actress depicted, challenged the gender norms of her time. Here, she's dressed in traditionally masculine attire, blurring the lines of identity and performance. In the late 1800s, the New Woman emerged, advocating for social and political change. Cross-dressing on stage allowed women to explore alternative identities, even if temporarily. These images were not without controversy, and sparked conversations about women's roles in society. This card is more than a portrait; it's a symbol of how identity can be fluid and performative, reflecting the social tensions and evolving roles of women at the turn of the century.