Actress with short curly hair, from Stars of the Stage, Third Series (N131) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Honest Long Cut Tobacco 1891 - 1892

This small card, made around 1888 by W. Duke, Sons & Co., was originally issued to promote Honest Long Cut Tobacco. Far from being straightforward advertisements, these cards offer insight into the social status of actresses and the burgeoning culture of celebrity at the time. The image presents a young woman with carefully styled hair and an elegant gown. In the late 19th century, theater was a widely popular form of entertainment, and actresses were among the most recognizable public figures. Tobacco companies, eager to associate their products with glamour and sophistication, frequently used images of actresses in their promotional materials. These cards circulated widely, making actresses’ likenesses accessible to a broad public, effectively democratizing celebrity culture. The use of such images raises questions about the relationship between art, commerce, and the construction of fame. Investigating the social and economic conditions that enabled the mass production and distribution of these cards helps us understand the values and aspirations of the era. By examining popular publications, theater programs, and business records, we can better grasp the significance of this seemingly trivial artifact.