Theresa Vaughn, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 8) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This carte-de-visite, part of the “Actors and Actresses” series produced by Allen & Ginter for Virginia Brights Cigarettes, features a portrait of actress Theresa Vaughn. Created between 1885 and 1891, the photograph captures Vaughn in a casual pose, holding a small animal. The small size and simple composition are characteristic of the carte-de-visite format, which was popular in the 19th century for sharing portraits and promoting celebrities. This particular card, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, provides a glimpse into the world of theater and popular culture of the late 19th century.