Milton Douglas "Buck" West, 1st Base, Minneapolis, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1889

This small baseball card featuring Milton Douglas "Buck" West was produced by Goodwin & Company in the late 19th century as part of the Old Judge Cigarettes series. The sepia tone and compact composition offer a glimpse into the visual culture of early baseball. West is shown in his uniform, holding a baseball bat, and the card is structured with a clear hierarchy of elements; the player is centered and framed by a soft-focus background, creating depth, while printed text provides the player’s name and team. The visual grammar of the card is a mix of portraiture and early advertising techniques, reflecting the emergent commercialization of sports. This interweaving of sport, photography, and advertising not only promoted baseball but also shaped its early visual identity and cultural resonance.