Sally Blanchard, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 1) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This is "Sally Blanchard, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 1) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes" by Allen & Ginter. These cards were part of a marketing strategy that capitalized on the popularity of actresses like Sally Blanchard in the late 19th century. At the time, these cards were inserted into cigarette packs, reflecting a culture where smoking and celebrity culture were interwoven. Consider the implications of Blanchard's image being used to sell cigarettes. She was not just a performer but a commodity, a face associated with a product that was becoming increasingly popular but whose health consequences were not yet fully understood. The card acts as a lens through which we can reflect on the complex interplay between entertainment, commerce, and public health. This card offers a poignant look at the commodification of fame and the cultural norms of its time. It prompts us to reflect on the role of celebrity in shaping social behaviors and desires.