Vintage Portrait of Early 20th Century Tobacco Tycoon

This photograph captures P. Lorillard, Jr., a prominent figure in the tobacco industry during the early 20th century. Born into the Lorillard family, who founded one of the oldest tobacco companies in the United States, P. Lorillard, Jr. played a vital role in shaping the modern cigarette market. He was known for his innovative marketing strategies and efforts that helped popularize various tobacco products during a time when smoking was becoming increasingly fashionable.

Taken in 1908 and published by the Bain News Service, this image reflects the eras growing interest in portrait photography, as well as the cultural shifts surrounding tobacco use. Industries were evolving, and so were societal attitudes. The early 1900s saw an increase in advertising and the commodification of leisure activities like smoking, which were often associated with sophistication and status. This photograph serves as a snapshot of a key player in that transformation, making it a significant portrayal of both individual legacy and broader industry trends during the period.