Rooks, Left Field, Chicago, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1888

This sepia-toned photograph from the *Old Judge* series, depicting a baseball player named Rooks, is a prime example of late 19th-century American trade cards. Produced in 1888 by Goodwin & Company, the card features a detailed image of the player in action, showcasing the sporting culture of the time. The inscription “Rooks, L. F. Chicago Maroons” identifies the player as a left fielder for the Chicago Maroons, highlighting the popularity of baseball in the era. The card's design, with its bold lettering and classic imagery, would have appealed to collectors and baseball enthusiasts of the day. The card is now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, a testament to its historical and cultural significance.