[Actress holding teacup], from the Actors and Actresses series (N145-8) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Duke Cigarettes 1890 - 1895

This monochrome photograph, part of the "Actors and Actresses" series, features a woman, likely an actress, holding a teacup. Created between 1890 and 1895 by W. Duke, Sons & Co. to promote Duke Cigarettes, the image is a prime example of trade cards, a popular form of advertising in the late 19th century. The simple composition and soft lighting evoke a sense of elegance and sophistication, consistent with the brand's target audience. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, houses this small yet significant piece of social history.