Leicester, from the Actors and Actresses series (N171) for Old Judge Cigarettes

Art Historical Context

Step into the vibrant world of 19th celebrity culture with *Leicester, from the and Actresses series (171) for Old Judgearettes*, produced by Goodwin & Company around 1886–90. This petite albumen photograph captures a portrait of the actress Leicester, one of many glamorous figures featured in this popular series. Tucked into packs of Old Judge Cigarettes these cards were savvy marketing tools that fueled a collecting frenzy among Americans, turning everyday smokers into avid hobbyists. The albumen process, a hallmark of 19th-century photography, coated paper with egg whites sensitized with s...

About the Artist

Goodwin & Company · 1850–1950

**Goodwin & Company (ca. 1850–1950)** Goodwin & Company, originally established as E. Goodwin and Brother before the American Civil War, emerged as a prominent New York City-based tobacco manufacturer in the mid-19th century. Operating from the bustling heart of Manhattan, the firm built its reputation on popular cigarette brands such as Gypsy Queen and, most notably, Old Judge, which became syno...