Grace Wallace, from the Actresses series (N245) issued by Kinney Brothers to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1890

Editor: Here we have a promotional photograph from 1890 by the Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company, part of their "Actresses" series. It’s a sepia-toned print of Grace Wallace in what looks like stage attire. It has such a theatrical, old-world feel to it. What stands out to you in this image? Curator: Immediately, the symbols of the era jump out. Consider how this image, distributed with Sweet Caporal Cigarettes, associates Grace Wallace's captivating stage presence with the product. There is also the Japonisme influence; this composition evokes the delicate, floating quality seen in Ukiyo-e prints. Can you see that interplay of cultures at work? Editor: I see that now! Her pose seems both grounded and ethereal, a neat visual trick! So, the image is meant to create an aspirational connection? Curator: Precisely! The tobacco company sought to imprint in cultural memory associations of glamour, beauty and talent with their product, a tactic used today as well! How do you interpret her gaze? Editor: She’s not looking directly at the viewer; instead, she's gazing slightly upward, like she’s envisioning a dream, an emotion, an idea. It certainly makes one ponder. Curator: It creates an implied narrative, a symbol for aspiration and escape. And notice how the clothing also alludes to those desires... the exotic costume and feather in her hair contribute to that message. What does it remind you of? Editor: This reminds me a little bit of burlesque outfits, a certain confidence that contrasts her gaze. Curator: That slight contradiction is interesting because we have a performer expressing confidence yet seemingly aspiring to some ideal beyond her current stage. So, she represents that "something more." The continuity of human desires being used and expressed through symbolism is interesting! Editor: I didn’t think about promotional images carrying that much cultural information! It really gives you something to think about! Curator: Yes, I hope we learn to look past the surface of the subject!