Smith, Pitcher, Philadelphia Athletics, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1888

Editor: This is "Smith, Pitcher, Philadelphia Athletics," a baseball card from 1888. It's part of the "Old Judge" series, produced for Old Judge Cigarettes. It was made by Goodwin & Company, and from the looks of it combines photography with, perhaps, some drawing techniques, or maybe it is even watercolor. It really gives off this sepia-toned, nostalgic vibe. I find it simple and fascinating! What strikes you when you look at this piece? Curator: You know, these cards were basically tiny windows into a world that was rapidly changing. To me, it feels like peering into a time capsule! Forget the mega-expensive sports memorabilia of today, these were literally puff pieces. Imagine collecting baseball cards hoping to see a glimpse of athletic heroes of the era in a society on the cusp of modern celebrity culture. I wonder what Smith was like? Confident? Nervous? Did he enjoy being a small part of popular culture? How did these men experience their own fame, so different from today? Does it evoke anything for you personally? Editor: It's true, the context does deepen my appreciation. Thinking about how different "fame" was back then, that's really interesting. It feels more... human, maybe? Less manufactured? I’m just wondering what we would use today to trade a view of celebrity: maybe a streaming subscription? Curator: Precisely! And each card must've been like holding a miniature idol in your hands. To own something tangible of someone who you admired. I appreciate that the composition itself draws my attention. The simplicity of the portrait puts all focus on the baseballer in a way that modern, maximalist design just doesn't. Editor: This really puts a different lens on these trading cards. Thinking of them as cultural artifacts, reflections of fame and admiration, that's really changed how I see them. Thank you! Curator: My pleasure, it's just so fun to muse on these little objects of popular ephemera.