Edwin Forrest "Ned" Bligh, Catcher, Cleveland, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1889

This is a baseball card from the "Old Judge" series, created in 1889 by Goodwin & Company for Old Judge Cigarettes. The card features a portrait of Edwin Forrest "Ned" Bligh, a catcher for the Columbus club. The image shows Bligh in a baseball uniform, holding a ball and about to throw it. This card exemplifies a popular form of advertising from the late 19th century, where companies would give away trading cards with images of athletes to promote their products. The card's design reflects the aesthetics of the period, with a simple composition and a focus on realism. This card, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, is a fascinating glimpse into the history of American sports and advertising.