From the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 5) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This is a carte-de-visite, a type of photograph popular in the 19th century. This image, from the "Actors and Actresses" series, was printed by Allen & Ginter for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. The series was created between 1885 and 1891 as a form of trade card, used for advertising and product promotion. The photograph showcases a woman, possibly an actress, seated on a stage or a platform with a decorative background. The image is a classic example of early photographic portraiture, often featuring a formal pose and focus on the subject.