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

This card, from the Actors and Actresses series, was made by Allen & Ginter to be included in packs of Virginia Brights Cigarettes. It’s printed on thin paper stock, likely using a photomechanical process that allowed for mass production. Now, think about the material itself. Paper, a cheap and readily available substance, was the perfect medium for ephemeral objects like these. The image, a somewhat faded portrait, speaks to the transient nature of fame and consumption. It’s interesting to consider the immense labour involved in producing these cards on an industrial scale, from the harvesting of the raw materials to the printing and distribution processes. These cards reflect a moment in time when celebrity culture and consumerism were beginning to intertwine. By understanding its materiality and means of production, we can appreciate how this seemingly insignificant paper card tells a larger story about industrial capitalism and the commodification of art and culture.