Pauline Hall, from the Actors and Actresses series (N171) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1886 - 1890

This is Pauline Hall, from the Actors and Actresses series (N171) for Old Judge Cigarettes, made around the late 19th century by Goodwin & Company. These cards capture a moment in time when celebrity culture was rapidly evolving. Hall was a prominent figure in the American musical theatre. Here she is depicted in costume, holding a tambourine, with a somewhat exoticized backdrop. The pose and attire, while reflecting theatrical flair, also speak to the representation of women in entertainment during this period – caught between admiration and objectification. The card’s purpose was to sell cigarettes, revealing how images of women were used to promote products, thereby reflecting a complex intersection of entertainment, consumerism, and gender dynamics. These cards offer a glimpse into the cultural values and social norms that framed the lives and careers of women in the public eye. They invite us to reflect on the changing landscape of celebrity, and the role of media in shaping our perceptions.