Card 604, Miss Johnson, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 1) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This is a photographic trade card of Miss Johnson, part of the Actors and Actresses series, produced by Allen & Ginter for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. Observe her gaze directed upwards, a motif resonant with hope and aspiration. This yearning look isn't confined to the late 19th century; it echoes through centuries, reminding us of Renaissance Madonnas gazing towards divine light, or even ancient sculptures depicting philosophers seeking higher truths. The upward gaze transcends mere direction; it embodies a psychological state, a reaching for something beyond the tangible. In ancient times, the upward glance was associated with divinity or seeking enlightenment. Over time, this gesture has been internalized, resurfacing as a symbol of hope, optimism, or even escapism in art. It taps into our collective memory, evoking a sense of longing and the human desire for transcendence. As you contemplate this image, consider how such symbols persist, evolving through epochs, and echoing within our subconscious.