Miss Mauri, from the Actresses series (N203) issued by Wm. S. Kimball & Co. 1889

This is Miss Mauri, a sepia photograph from the Actresses series by Wm. S. Kimball & Co. These cards were originally included in cigarette packs, reflecting how the commodification of femininity was woven into everyday life. Miss Mauri’s gaze is alluring, but there's also a sense of vulnerability in her posture. She’s presented in a manner meant to titillate, yet her expression hints at the complexities of performing for a male gaze during a time of evolving social constraints for women. The dance costume places her within a certain expectation of femininity and entertainment. This image both reflects and shapes societal attitudes towards women in the late 19th century. The photograph acts as a mirror reflecting our ongoing discussions around gender, representation, and the power dynamics inherent in how images are created and consumed.