Irene Perry, from the Actresses series (N246), Type 2, issued by Kinney Brothers to promote Sporting Extra Cigarettes 1888 - 1892

This is Irene Perry, from the Actresses series (N246), Type 2, a promotional card issued by the Kinney Brothers to promote Sporting Extra Cigarettes. These cards offer us a glimpse into the social and cultural dynamics of the late 19th century. These cards reflect a time when celebrity culture was on the rise, and the images of actresses were used to sell products and ideals. The actress, elegantly posed, becomes a symbol of aspiration, reflecting the intertwined relationship between entertainment, commerce, and the construction of identity. While the Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company may not have thought of themselves as artists, the card participates in the creation and distribution of images that shape our perceptions of beauty, femininity, and success. It is a reflection of the societal values and gender roles prevalent at the time. Even now, the image evokes a sense of nostalgia, inviting us to contemplate the ever-evolving relationship between image, identity, and consumer culture.