Maud Waldemere, Corsair Co., from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 1) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

Editor: This is "Maud Waldemere, Corsair Co." a photographic print made by Allen & Ginter between 1885 and 1891, part of the Actors and Actresses series for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. I'm immediately struck by the textural contrasts – the soft blurring of the background versus the sharpness of her costume. How do you see the artist using form in this image? Curator: Notice how the artist has used the sepia tone to flatten the space. Our eye isn't drawn into depth, but rather stays on the surface, considering the juxtaposition of textures you pointed out. Semiotically, the column could be read as a stage prop – a visual device that reinforces the subject’s performative identity. Editor: So you see the column mainly as a framing element, rather than a setting? Curator: Precisely. Consider the way her pose, with the hand on her hip, creates a distinct triangular shape, echoed subtly in the feathered headdress. It all contributes to a calculated composition rather than a realistic depiction of an actress in her environment. The cigarette branding is part of the formal structure. Editor: Interesting! I was initially caught up in trying to place the scene, but looking at the shapes and textures creates a whole new understanding. The artist focused on the composition, in flattening it out to keep you at a remove. Curator: Indeed. The effect is not about capturing a moment but creating an icon. It is as though every element, even the brand, are of equal weighting to create this sense. The light reflecting off her head piece drawing you in.