LOT #58005 |
Current Bid: $160
1889 W. Duke Sons & Co. "Duke's Cameo Cigarettes" Lillian Russell Premium Sized Store Sign. ...
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Description
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.Guide Value or Estimate: $500 - up.
Auction Info
2025 September 27 Sports Showcase Extended Bidding Auction #70024 (go to Auction Home page)
Proxy Bidding Ends
September
27th
Saturday
10:00 pm CT
Auction Dates
September
27th
Saturday
Proxy Bidding Time Remaining
12 Days
6h 28m 32s
Internet/Mail Bids: 4
Lot Tracking Activity: 10
Page Views: 71
Buyer's Premium per Lot:
22% of the successful bid (minimum $29) per lot.
This lot is in: 1 -
Sports Collectibles Session
(Lots 58001-59377) - 10:00 PM Central Time, Saturday, September 27, 2025.
[Internet bidding closes at 10:00 PM Central Time the evening the session begins, with
Additional Location Info:
Heritage Auctions
2801 W. Airport Freeway
Dallas, TX 75261
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