Mdme. Reserve, from the Actresses series (N67) promoting Virginia Brights Cigarettes for Allen & Ginter brand tobacco products 1885 - 1893

This is a trade card from the "Actresses" series produced by Allen & Ginter between 1885-1893. The card features a black and white photograph of a woman, likely an actress, identified as "Mdme. Reserve" and advertising Virginia Brights cigarettes. This series was a popular method of promoting tobacco products in the late 19th century, using portraits of famous actresses to attract attention and connect the brand with a sense of glamour and popularity. The Metropolitan Museum of Art holds this small trade card, measuring 2 5/8 × 1 1/2 in. (6.7 × 3.8 cm), offering a glimpse into the history of tobacco advertising and a fascinating snapshot of theatrical culture in the 19th century.