James Elsworth "Jimmy" Peoples, Catcher, Cleveland, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1887

Editor: This is "James Elsworth 'Jimmy' Peoples, Catcher, Cleveland," a photograph from the Old Judge series, created by Goodwin & Company in 1887. It's a baseball card, essentially, with the image printed on what looks like aged, toned paper. It feels very much of its time, a little stiff and posed. What's your take on it? Curator: The materiality of this piece is fascinating. It's not just an image, but a commodity. These cards were inserted into cigarette packs. Think about that—photography, a relatively new technology at the time, being used to promote a product associated with labor, leisure, and even addiction. Editor: So the image isn’t just about the player, but also about selling something? Curator: Precisely! The means of production and distribution are central to understanding this work. Who was buying these cigarettes? Who was consuming these images? This ties into a broader context of consumer culture emerging in the late 19th century, and the commodification of athletic figures. The Old Judge Cigarette Factory employed many workers. How did that affect the aesthetic of this "high art" photograph? Editor: That makes me see it differently. It’s less about sport and more about industry, about a system of creating both idols and dependencies. Were the players even aware of how they were being used? Curator: An excellent question! The relationship between the athletes, the photographers, and the company is complex and worth exploring. Were they compensated fairly? What role did labor laws play at this time? Considering these issues elevates our understanding of a simple baseball card. Editor: It’s amazing how much this one image opens up! I wouldn't have considered all of this at first glance. Curator: Exactly. Looking at the materiality and context behind art can completely reshape our perspective. This piece speaks volumes about the culture and economy of its time.