Edith Kingdon, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 1) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This is a promotional trading card of Edith Kingdon, an American actress, made by Allen & Ginter for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. The Actors and Actresses series reflects the cultural milieu of the late 19th century, when celebrity culture began to take hold. The image of Kingdon, with her elegant gown and delicate fan, speaks to the ideals of feminine beauty and grace that were prized during this era. She stands in front of us, an object of our gaze, which speaks to the commodification of women. It's worth noting the interwoven themes of entertainment, consumption, and gender roles in this piece. The card captures a moment in time when theater and advertising were becoming intertwined, shaping societal values and desires. While on one hand the card promotes a certain image of feminine perfection, it also serves as a reminder of the limited roles available to women in the public sphere. It prompts us to consider the complex and often contradictory ways in which women's identities were constructed and consumed during this period.