Wallie Eddinger, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 8) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This sepia photograph of Wallie Eddinger, part of a series of actors and actresses, was created as a cigarette card. The sitter’s posture, with arms crossed, is particularly striking. This gesture, seen throughout art history, often conveys defiance or self-containment. Think of Renaissance portraits where powerful figures adopt a similar pose, projecting authority. Yet, here, on a young performer advertising cigarettes, the gesture takes on a new meaning, perhaps hinting at the subject's self-awareness. Consider, too, the way such gestures tap into our collective memory. The crossing of arms might subconsciously evoke feelings of resistance or protection, engaging viewers on a deeply personal level. Ultimately, this image becomes a fascinating example of how gestures evolve over time. What was once a symbol of power is here repurposed, reflecting the changing social landscape and the evolving role of celebrity.