Berge, Palais Royal, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 1) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This card featuring Berge, Palais Royal, was produced by Allen & Ginter for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. It's part of a larger series that speaks volumes about the cultural landscape of its time. Popular imagery was just being folded into the burgeoning consumer culture of the late 19th century. This card, like others in the series, used the image of a performer to sell cigarettes. The Palais Royal was a popular theatre in Paris, suggesting Berge was likely an actress performing there. Tobacco companies understood that by associating their product with celebrity and entertainment, they could enhance its appeal and reach a wider audience. This strategy reflects the growing importance of advertising and brand identity in the industrial era. To fully appreciate the social dynamics at play, one must consider the history of advertising, performance, and gender roles in the 19th century. Researching theatrical archives and advertising history can shed light on Berge’s career and the cultural significance of these trading cards.