Lillian Russell, from the Actresses series (N245) issued by Kinney Brothers to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1890

This is a photograph of Lillian Russell from the Actresses series, made by the Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company in the late 19th century as a promotional item for Sweet Caporal Cigarettes. At this time, commercial photography was still relatively new, and its use in advertising was just emerging. The image captures the social conditions that shaped artistic production. It reveals how celebrity culture and the burgeoning advertising industry were intertwined. This card reflects the marketing strategies of the Gilded Age, where consumerism was on the rise, and tobacco companies sought to associate their products with glamour and fame. This was also a time of evolving social norms, where actresses like Lillian Russell were becoming public figures, challenging traditional roles for women. Understanding this artwork involves delving into the history of advertising, celebrity culture, and the social history of the Gilded Age. Researching Kinney Brothers Tobacco Company and the career of Lillian Russell can shed light on the cultural context in which this image was produced and consumed. Ultimately, this photograph serves as a window into a pivotal moment in the history of both art and commerce.