PO Box 619999
Dallas, TX 75261-6199
Street Address:
2801 W. Airport Freeway
Dallas, Texas 75261-4127
(Northwest corner of W. Airport Freeway [HWY-183] & Valley View Lane)
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877-HERITAGE (437-4824)(214) 528-3500
Fax: (214) 409-1425
Auction Name: 2025 September 27 Sports Showcase Extended Bidding Auction
Lot Number: 58005
Shortcut to Lot: HA.com/70024*58005
1889 W. Duke Sons & Co. "Duke's Cameo Cigarettes" Lillian Russell Premium Sized Store Sign. Lillian Russell became the face of the growing tobacco juggernaut during the late 19th century which without question opened the door for all future celebrity endorsements. Russell was an enigmatic figure known for being one of the most popular singers and actresses of her era. Opera, Broadway actress and burlesque dancer all in one package who is claimed by some to have a beauty and presence with Cleopatra's allure with a knack for being famous just for being famous. She was also an outspoken voice for women's rights and an advocate for President Harding. Offered is a rare store display sign c. 1889 produced by W. Duke and Sons Co. for their Duke's "Cameo Cigarettes." This all-original store advertising sign features a familiar and mesmerizing portrait of Ms. Russell in the original frame and all-wood backing. Overall excellent condition presentation quality although the frame does have some areas of scuffing. Printing is only modestly affected. Lithography credit goes to "Major, Knapp & Co. N.Y." which printed in the lower right corner. Overall dimensions are 21" x 26." This veteran hobbyist encountered this large portrait only once as an irregularly shaped cut out from her chin up and glued into a scrap book album. To the best of our research, this is the only example we are aware of a complete, with original frame/backing as issued. It would be shocking to find out if more than a handful still exist.
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