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

This black and white photograph, "Kittie Wells, from the Actresses series (N245)" was created by Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company in 1890 as part of a promotional campaign for Sweet Caporal Cigarettes. The image depicts a woman, Kittie Wells, an actress of the time, standing against a dark background, adorned in a feathery costume and a large white boa. These trade cards were popular promotional items during the late 19th century and are now considered historical artifacts, providing a glimpse into the popular culture of the era. The image, currently in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, is a prime example of the trade card genre, showcasing a prominent figure of the day.