A Regular Ball, from the Talk of the Diamond set (N135) issued by Duke Sons & Co., a branch of the American Tobacco Company 1888

"A Regular Ball" is a humorous lithograph from the "Talk of the Diamond" set, created in 1888 by W. Duke, Sons & Co. as a promotional item for their tobacco company. This card features a cartoon-like depiction of a baseball held in a hand alongside four crying babies. The illustration plays on the association between baseball and its perceived connection to tough, masculine identity, contrasting it with the image of the helpless and crying infants. This humorous juxtaposition was likely intended to appeal to the target audience of the time – male smokers – by highlighting the humorous and unexpected side of the brand. The card's vibrant colors and whimsical style contribute to its playful and engaging quality.