A huge collection of 19th-century theatre memorabilia, including cabinet cards, CDVs, advertising trade cards, and programs, sold at auction in 2023 for $3,400.
Built over years by a dedicated theatre collector, the collection featured rare photographs of famous 19th-century actors and actresses, promotional trade cards for specific performances, and memorabilia from historic American and British playhouses. Items like an advertising card for Corinne “The Little Queen,” a silk souvenir program from the Corse Payton Comedy Co., and a lithograph of Effie Ellsler as Hazel Kirke show how theatre fans from over a century ago held onto pieces of their favorite performances—much like people today collect movie posters or sports cards.
The First Celebrity Trading Cards
Before movie stars and professional athletes, theatre performers were the biggest names in entertainment. In the 19th century, actresses and actors were the celebrities of their time. People didn’t just go to the theatre—they followed their favorite performers, collected souvenirs, and bought professional portraits at shows and photography studios. Photography studios produced cabinet cards and CDVs (carte de visite) by the thousands, featuring 19th century actresses in costume, posed studio shots, or dramatic action scenes from their most famous roles. Much like baseball cards, fans collected these portraits, traded them, and stored them in albums.
Theaters and production companies also created trade cards to advertise upcoming shows. They quickly realized these collectible portraits kept audiences engaged and helped promote future performances.
Who Were the Big Names?
The auctioned collection featured 132 actors and actresses, spanning decades of stage history. Top performers in 19th-century theatre included:
- Sarah Bernhardt (1844-1923) – One of the most famous actresses of all time, known for her bold performances and dramatic roles.
- Ellen Terry (1847-1928) – A top Shakespearean actress in Britain and the U.S.
- Lillian Russell (1860-1922) – An operatic singer who was just as famous for her celebrity lifestyle.
- John Drew (1853-1927) – A major theatre star and member of the famous Barrymore family.
- Joseph Jefferson (1829-1905) – Best known for his long-running portrayal of Rip Van Winkle.
- Helena Modjeska (1840-1909) – A Polish actress who became a top Shakespearean performer in America.
Bradley & Rulofson of San Francisco and Napoleon Sarony of New York produced most of the images in this collection. These two studios dominated 19th-century celebrity photography, capturing famous stage performers. The collection also included theatre trade cards, like an 1893 Fireman’s Ball admission ticket from the Idaho Springs Opera House. More than just photographs, these items show the venues and productions that shaped this era of theatre.
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Britannic Auctions specializes in antique paper collectibles, theatre memorabilia, and early celebrity photography. Whether you’re looking to sell a single rare piece or a full collection, we offer free auction estimates and expert guidance.
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