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

This is a portrait of actress Nevieve Lytton, part of a series of trading cards created by Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company in 1890 to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes. The card, printed on a small sheet of paper, depicts Lytton in a simple pose, gazing down with her hair pulled back. These cards were collected by cigarette smokers and traded among them, becoming a popular pastime in the late 19th century. This image, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art collection, offers a glimpse into the history of early 20th century advertising, highlighting the relationship between tobacco companies and popular culture.