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

This sepia-toned photo, part of the *Actresses series* issued by Kinney Brothers to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes, depicts the famous American actress Lillian Russell. The image, created in 1890, shows Russell in a simple, elegant gown, her hair styled with a large, decorative bow. The photograph's simple composition and intimate portrait style reflect the popular aesthetic of the time, while also showcasing the burgeoning use of celebrity endorsements in marketing. The card, measuring 2 1/2 × 1 7/16 in., is a prime example of *trade cards*, a popular form of advertising in the late 19th century. Today, the card is part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, providing a glimpse into the world of late 19th-century entertainment and advertising.