Thomas H. "Pat" Deasley, Catcher, New York, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1887

This baseball card from 1887, printed by Goodwin & Company for Old Judge Cigarettes, captures Thomas "Pat" Deasley, a catcher for New York. At its heart, this image is a modern echo of an ancient motif: the poised athlete, ready to act. Consider the discus thrower of Myron, or even the depictions of warriors readying for battle. Deasley's stance, the focused gaze, the ball held firm – these are not merely elements of a baseball game, but symbols of readiness and potential energy. The act of ‘catching’ is in itself a potent symbol. In dreams and myths, catching something often represents grasping an opportunity, averting disaster, or taking control. Here, Deasley embodies the protector, the guardian, the one who secures the play. This symbolism extends beyond the diamond, touching something primal in our collective psyche. The non-linear progression of these symbols, from ancient sculptures to modern baseball cards, highlights how humanity's fundamental experiences and emotions are perpetually re-imagined and re-contextualized.