Edward C. "Mouse" Glenn, Left Field, Sioux City Corn Huskers, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1889

Editor: So, here we have "Edward C. 'Mouse' Glenn, Left Field, Sioux City Corn Huskers," from 1889, a photo print originally made for Old Judge Cigarettes. It’s quite small and faded, yet there’s something captivating about the simplicity of the composition. What do you see in this piece, especially given its connection to advertising? Curator: Ah, yes. It's a snapshot of Americana dipped in sepia tones, isn’t it? Back then, tobacco cards were miniature windows into a world of heroes. Looking at Glenn, I feel a twinge of nostalgia for simpler times, though perhaps through rose-tinted glasses. But tell me, Editor, does his stance evoke any feeling for you beyond the historical context? It’s more than just a commercial product. It's a moment suspended. What does the athlete's frozen action convey to you? Editor: I hadn't really thought of the athlete's stance beyond simply preparing to pitch. I suppose it gives the sense of potential and the anticipation of the game unfolding. The sense of stillness definitely heightens that feeling. Curator: Precisely. It captures that instant of poised energy, like a coiled spring before release. Makes you wonder about the stories behind the cigarette brand too, doesn't it? Did Glenn even smoke? How peculiar to think that the pursuit of athleticism could be interwoven with promoting tobacco! I’m suddenly struck by the irony! This image offers an interesting comment about consumer culture, would you agree? Editor: Definitely, I hadn't thought about that irony before, but it adds a fascinating layer to the image and how advertising works. Thanks for sharing your insight. Curator: And thank *you* for opening my eyes to that contained energy. It's a pleasure, always, to unravel these little stories together.