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

This is a black and white photograph from the Actresses series, issued by Kinney Brothers to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes. The photograph depicts Edith Pond, a popular actress, in a theatrical pose. She is wearing a feathered hat and a flowing dress, and is holding a parasol in her hand. The background is a soft blur, which helps to focus attention on the actress. This type of photograph was common in the late 19th century, and was used to promote various products. The photograph is now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection. The image exemplifies a trend of using celebrity endorsements in advertising.