Ella Barkard, from the Actresses series (N203) issued by Wm. S. Kimball & Co. 1889

This carte de visite, part of the "Actresses" series, depicts Ella Barkard, a performer likely from the late 19th century. The black and white photograph, produced by William S. Kimball & Co. in 1889, captures Barkard in a theatrical pose, possibly from a stage production. The image, with its delicate details and focus on the performer, exemplifies the popularity of these collectible cards during the era. These cards were often used as promotional material for various products, including cigarettes as indicated by the inscription on this one. This particular card, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, stands as a testament to the evolving world of entertainment and the evolving art of photography in the late 19th century.