Lev Shreve, Pitcher, Indianapolis, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1888

This is a baseball card of Lev Shreve, a pitcher for Indianapolis, created in 1888 by Goodwin & Company as part of an Old Judge Cigarettes series. Observe Shreve’s stance, his gaze focused on the ball held aloft. This gesture of holding an object, so primal, reverberates through history. One sees echoes of it in ancient depictions of kings holding orbs, symbolizing power and control, or even religious figures holding sacred objects. The ball, here, transcends its simple form. It embodies potential, anticipation, and the unfolding drama of the game. This simple sphere connects us to primordial forms—the sun, the earth—and the cycle of life itself. The very act of pitching stirs deep-seated emotions—hope, fear, the thrill of competition. And in Shreve's poised figure, we see the echoes of athletes across time, their bodies honed, their minds focused, their spirits embodying the timeless pursuit of excellence. It is a potent symbol, a reminder of our shared humanity and the enduring power of sport.