Emma Chester, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 3) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This is a trade card from the “Actors and Actresses” series, issued by Allen & Ginter for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. The card features a photograph of actress Emma Chester, known for her stage performances in the late 19th century. It was printed between 1885 and 1891, and is currently part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection in New York City. The card exemplifies the use of celebrity imagery in commercial advertising during this era. This is a rare example of an early form of celebrity culture, highlighting the growing popularity of tobacco products in the late 19th century.