Card Number 217, Charlotte Perry, from the Actors and Actresses series (N145-5) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Cameo Cigarettes 1880s

This 1880s trade card, part of the *Actors and Actresses* series, depicts actress Charlotte Perry holding two cats. The card, created by W. Duke, Sons & Co., was issued to promote the company's Cameo Cigarettes. The simple sepia-toned photograph of Perry provides a glimpse into the lives of popular performers of the time. The text, "Duke's Cameo Cigarettes are the best," serves as a reminder of the card's promotional purpose, highlighting the popularity of these collectible cards as a form of advertising. This artifact, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offers insight into the cultural and commercial practices of the late 19th century.