History of Helena Modjeska, from the Histories of Poor Boys and Famous People series of booklets (N79) for Duke brand cigarettes 1888

This is one of a series of collectible cards made around 1888 by W. Duke, Sons & Co. featuring portraits of famous figures, included in packages of Duke brand cigarettes. The portrait is of Helena Modjeska, a Polish actress who immigrated to the United States in 1876 and gained fame performing Shakespearean roles. Consider how Modjeska’s foreign origins, and the exoticism this implied, may have figured in her public appeal. And also, the kind of theatre she performed in catered to a certain elite social class. The image is printed on a small card designed to be collected and traded. It captures Modjeska in profile, wearing elaborate jewelry and a high-necked dress. The printing technique gives the image a slightly soft, romantic quality. Advertising cards like this were a popular form of marketing in the late 19th century. They offer a fascinating insight into the values and aspirations of the time. To understand this image more fully, we might explore theatre programs or newspapers from the period, to discover more about the construction of celebrity at this time. The meaning of this small card is contingent on its circulation within a particular social and economic context.