Charles Albert "The Old Roman" Comiskey, 1st Base and Manager, St. Louis Browns, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1888

Goodwin & Company created this trade card of Charles Albert Comiskey for Old Judge Cigarettes. The sepia tone flattens the image, emphasizing the subject's form over the surrounding details. Comiskey's upward gaze directs our own, leading to an invisible line tracing the ball he is about to catch. His pale figure sharply contrasts with the dark grass, drawing attention to his action. The division of space is striking: Comiskey occupies the upper two-thirds, while the landscape is condensed into the lower third. This disproportionate use of space directs the viewers’ attention to Comiskey, elevating his importance. In this way, the card does not merely depict but also constructs an idea of fame. This carefully constructed image is designed to promote both Comiskey and the Old Judge brand. The sepia tones evoke a sense of history and timelessness. While the card's primary function was commercial, it also provides insights into how cultural values of sports and celebrity were being shaped.