[Child holding tambourine], from the Actors and Actresses series (N145-8) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Duke Cigarettes 1890 - 1895

Editor: Here we have a print from between 1890 and 1895, "[Child holding tambourine]," part of the "Actors and Actresses" series, put out by W. Duke, Sons & Co. as an advertisement. It's interesting that a tobacco company used images like this; what do you make of it? Curator: It's crucial to situate this within the context of late 19th-century consumer culture and its impact on the lives of women and children. While seemingly innocent, consider how such imagery promoted not just tobacco but also constructed ideals of femininity and even childhood. These representations normalized certain class and racial standards. Who do you think this image targeted? Editor: Well, given that it's an advertisement, probably the middle class and upper class. It feels aspirational, like they're selling a lifestyle in addition to cigarettes. Curator: Exactly. And who is typically responsible for household purchases at this time? This photograph contributes to the objectification and commodification of women. Moreover, consider the child performer – what rights or agency did they possess in an industry that profited from their image and labor? We must ask these difficult questions, acknowledging that advertising has always been deeply intertwined with power structures and social norms. Editor: I hadn’t thought about the exploitation aspect, only the advertising. It’s disturbing to realize that what seems like a harmless photograph could reflect so many problematic issues. Curator: Precisely. By critically analyzing these seemingly benign images, we can unearth the complex historical and societal factors at play and gain insights into issues of power, gender, and representation that persist even today. Editor: This gives me a completely new way of thinking about art’s purpose, going beyond just aesthetics. I will never look at an advertisement the same way! Curator: And hopefully, this way of looking can extend beyond the art world and into our daily lives as conscious and active citizens.