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

"Annie Martell," a 1890s trading card from the Actresses series, showcases a photograph of a woman dressed in a fashionable gown and seated on a chair. Created by the Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company to promote their Sweet Caporal Cigarettes, the card exemplifies the popular trend of using celebrity endorsements to market products during this period. The image is a simple yet effective portrayal of the subject, showcasing the allure of the Victorian era and the growing popularity of celebrity culture. The card, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, provides a glimpse into the intersection of advertising and popular culture in the late 19th century.