Life of Amalia Materna, from the Histories of Poor Boys and Famous People series of booklets (N79) for Duke brand cigarettes 1888

This chromolithograph from 1888 is part of the "Histories of Poor Boys and Famous People" series of booklets produced by W. Duke, Sons & Co. to promote Duke brand cigarettes. It depicts the renowned opera singer Amalia Materna, known for her powerful voice and dramatic interpretations. The image captures Materna's likeness in a simple yet elegant pose, her features rendered with detail against a soft blue background. This small, collectible booklet, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a fascinating example of early cigarette advertising, blending popular culture and artistic illustration.