Card Number 607, Laura Burt, from the Actors and Actresses series (N145-3) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Cross Cut Cigarettes 1880s

This is a promotional card of Laura Burt, an actress from the late 19th century, created by W. Duke, Sons & Co. The sepia tones lend an air of nostalgia, framing Burt in a theatrical pose. Note the composition, where Burt is centrally positioned, clutching a sword, flanked by suggestive palm fronds. The textures, from the softness of her skin to the elaborate trim of her costume, serve to draw the eye. The image, however, is not merely a portrait. Semiotically, the sword functions as a signifier of power, traditionally associated with masculinity, here appropriated by a woman. The background alludes to exotic adventure. This card destabilizes conventional roles by presenting an actress as both a subject of allure and an emblem of authority. The convergence of advertisement and artistry complicates the viewing experience. As we examine the image, remember that its purpose extends beyond simple representation. It actively constructs and communicates values related to power, identity, and consumer culture.