John Thomas "Tug" Arundel, Catcher, Indianapolis, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1887

Editor: This is a baseball card from 1887 featuring John Thomas "Tug" Arundel, a catcher for Indianapolis. It’s a gelatin silver print, produced by Goodwin & Company as part of the "Old Judge" cigarette series. The sepia tone gives it a nostalgic feel; he looks like he’s ready to defend his position, like a silent guardian of home plate. What draws you to this piece? Curator: The pose is striking, isn’t it? Think about it: an everyday hero captured in this almost timeless stance. It reminds me of those old western movies, the anticipation hanging heavy in the air before the big showdown. But more than that, it makes me wonder about Arundel. What were his dreams? What stories would he tell over a smoke after a hard-won game? Don’t you feel that same personal connection, like you're glimpsing a story untold? Editor: I do see that! It’s more than just a sports card. There's a sense of storytelling in the pose, and how serious he looks! But it’s also an advertisement. I’m wondering, how did the commercial aspect influence the artistry? Curator: Good point! These cards were slipped into cigarette packs to boost sales. Each one, a mini-portrait meant to capture attention, build brand loyalty, even ignite fantasies. It's commercial art, sure, but it is also this amazing slice of social history. Consider the cigarette brand’s name! Isn’t there a delicious irony? To capture and package that "judging" gaze that epitomizes those final moments on the baseball field. They must have known, instinctively, it would hit just right. What do you think about this irony? Editor: It’s fascinating. I never thought about the brand name like that! Curator: Right? Little details. It changes everything. Editor: Absolutely, this helps me to appreciate the historical context! Thank you! Curator: You’re most welcome! Seeing the intersection of sport, portraiture, and advertising opens up so many layers of interpretation, right? It’s more than just a card; it's a tiny time capsule.