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

This is a promotional photograph of Fannie Rice, part of a series created by Kinney Brothers to advertise Sweet Caporal Cigarettes. Here, the actress is adorned with an elaborate hat, a symbol of status and femininity deeply rooted in the cultural aesthetics of the late 19th century. The hat, more than mere fashion, evokes images of fertility and abundance—reminiscent of ancient cornucopias overflowing with nature's gifts. We can trace this motif back to classical antiquity, where head adornments signified divinity and power. Think of the elaborate headdresses of Egyptian pharaohs or the laurel wreaths of Roman emperors. This echoes in later eras, such as the towering wigs of the French aristocracy. Through each iteration, the hat remains a potent symbol of aspiration and identity. This image taps into the collective memory, engaging viewers on a subconscious level with deeply ingrained notions of beauty, power, and desire. A potent reminder of how symbols continually resurface, adapting to new contexts while retaining echoes of their original meanings.