Mrs. J.B. Potter, from the Actors and Actresses series (N171) for Gypsy Queen Cigarettes 1886 - 1890

This is a carte de visite photograph of Mrs. J.B. Potter, an actress, from the *Actors and Actresses* series by Goodwin & Company, produced between 1886 and 1890. Carte de visite, a popular form of portrait photography in the 19th century, often featured famous individuals. The image depicts Mrs. Potter in a formal pose, showcasing the prevalent fashion trends of the period. The photograph was likely intended for personal use or as a promotional piece for Gypsy Queen Cigarettes, the company for which it was produced. The card exemplifies the role of photography in capturing contemporary social trends, promoting business, and celebrating figures from the entertainment world.