This is a finely preserved cabinet card portrait of the burlesque / stage actress Lizzie Harold (Comley) in full theatrical costume, shot by The Sparks Photo-Publishing Co., Philadelphia. The card bears a clear inscription of her name on the back and the stamp of Russell Brothers, Boston. Russell Bros. was likely a theatrical photo retailer or distributor. In this portrait she wears an elaborately embroidered jacket, fringed bloomers, fitted tights, and a tasseled cap, posed against a dreamy studio backdrop evoking a misty rural scene. The costume is striking, with excellent detail in the braid, fringe, buttons, and fabric textures. The card is in very good condition, with strong contrast and little wear (see scans). Lizzie Harold was a late 19th-century singer/dancer / burlesque performer whose portraiture was circulated in theatrical photography formats and trading cards. While her documented biography is limited, her promotional portraits are known among collectors of theatrical ephemera. It is important to note that research reveals that she is sometimes referred to as Lizzie Harold Comley or Elizabeth Harrold-Comley. SOLD
THE CABINET CARD GALLERY 
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