This cabinet card photograph features Polish actress, Helena Modjeska (1840-1909). She was known for her Shakespearean and tragic roles. She began her career on the Polish stage and after emigrating to the United States in 1876, she was successful on both the American and British stage. She is considered the greatest actress in the history of the Polish stage. After marrying Count Karol Bozenta Chłapowski, Modjeska emigrated with him to the United States in 1876. She initially attempted to establish a utopian agricultural community in California. However, the colony struggled, and she turned back to acting to support the venture financially. Modjeska achieved remarkable success on the American stage, learning English and debuting in San Francisco in Adrienne Lecouvreur. She quickly became known for her elegance, refined acting style, and powerful performances in Shakespeare’s plays, such as As You Like It and Othello, which she toured extensively across the U.S. and England. She played twelve Shakespearean parts in this country in addition to other classic and contemporary roles. In 1883 she appeared in America’s first professional appearance of Ibsen’s “A Doll’s House”. This cabinet card was published by Newsboy as a premium for their tobacco products. Miss Modjeska’s photograph was taken by esteemed celebrity photographer, Benjamin Falk in 1889. Some may consider this photo risque because of Modjeska’s low cut dress. SOLD
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THE CABINET CARD GALLERY 