John J. "Jack" Clements, Catcher, Philadelphia, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1887

This 1887 baseball card from the "Old Judge" series features John J. "Jack" Clements, catcher for the Philadelphia Athletics. The card was produced by Goodwin & Company as part of a larger series of cards, each promoting Old Judge Cigarettes. The card shows Clements holding a bat and wearing a traditional baseball uniform, capturing a snapshot of the sport in the late 19th century. The card's simple composition and sepia tone enhance the image's historical significance and the artist's skillful use of detail to capture Clements's likeness. The Metropolitan Museum of Art houses this card, a prime example of early baseball memorabilia and a fascinating glimpse into the sport's past.