This striking cabinet card presents Kitty Blanchard, a prominent American stage actress of the late 19th century. Seated in a confident pose, she is dressed in an elegant dark dress that hints at late Victorian fashion, with a fitted bodice and high collar, possibly made of velvet or a similar rich fabric. The neckline is modest, and the detailing is ornate yet refined, suggesting both stage presence and social grace. A subtle brooch or decorative element rests at her throat, drawing the viewer’s attention to her carefully arranged appearance. Her hair is styled in a voluminous upswept fashion, typical of actresses of her era, and her expression is composed, intelligent, and slightly reserved—conveying the self-assurance of a seasoned performer. There’s a maturity and dignity in her face that speaks of both artistic discipline and personal resolve. Her overall appearance is poised, polished, and unmistakably theatrical. Kitty Blanchard was a well-known American actress born circa 1850, likely in New York. She enjoyed significant success in the 1870s through the 1890s, often cast in melodramas and character roles that required both emotional intensity and comedic timing. She was married to William A. Mestayer, a fellow stage actor and playwright. The two frequently worked together and were regarded as a respected couple in theatrical circles of the time. Blanchard was best known for her roles in popular touring productions of melodramatic favorites such as “The Galley Slave” and “The Two Orphans”—the latter being one of her most memorable parts, where she often played the devoted sister. She was also admired for her comedic ability, particularly in domestic farces and sentimental comedies. Kitty Blanchard passed away in 1912, closing the curtain on a long and respected theatrical career. Though she never achieved national superstardom, she held a solid and admirable place in 19th-century American theater, especially as a stalwart of the traveling stage companies that brought culture to towns across the country. This cabinet card was produced by the esteemed Philadelphia photographic firm Gilbert & Bacon, one of the most prolific studio partnerships of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The studio was originally established by Charles M. Gilbert, who later partnered with William F. Bacon around 1875. Together, they operated a prominent photography business specializing in theatrical portraits, society figures, and portraiture of prominent Philadelphians. Gilbert & Bacon became known for their technical skill and their ability to capture the charisma of stage personalities, making them a favorite among actors and actresses appearing in Philadelphia theaters. Their studio, located on Chestnut Street, was active well into the early 1900s. (SOLD)
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Ethel Jackson (1877-1957) was an American stage actress and comic prima donna. She was the great granddaughter of the first Governor of Rhode Island. She was educated in Europe and began acting acting in London, England. She was brought to America by Charles Frohman to play the leading role in “Little Miss Nobody” in New York City. In 1914 she debuted in Vaudeville at the Orpheum in Brooklyn, New York. The photographer of this Cabinet Card is Gilbert & Bacon of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. To view other photographs by this studio, click on the category “Photographer: Gilbert & Bacon”.
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