Lucy Emerson, from the Actors and Actresses series (N45, Type 1) for Virginia Brights Cigarettes 1885 - 1891

This small card, featuring Lucy Emerson from the "Actors and Actresses" series, was created by Allen & Ginter as a promotional insert for Virginia Brights Cigarettes. These cards, common in the late 19th century, offer a glimpse into the cultural values of the time. Lucy Emerson, a stage actress, gains visibility through this commercial context, highlighting the increasing intersection of entertainment, consumer culture, and celebrity. The image presents a carefully constructed representation of femininity. Her demure pose and soft features reflect the period's ideals of beauty and womanhood. Yet, her presence on a cigarette card also hints at the evolving role of women in public life, as both performers and consumers. This tension between traditional representation and emerging roles is palpable. The commercialization of images like these underscores the complex ways in which identities are shaped by industry and desire.