Waddell, St. Louis, American League, from the White Border series (T206) for the American Tobacco Company 1909 - 1911

Editor: This is a print of "Waddell, St. Louis, American League," from 1909 to 1911, by the American Tobacco Company. The first thing I notice is how simple the composition is, yet the colors evoke such a lively impression. What do you make of this baseball card? Curator: The artist’s strategic arrangement of form and color is notable. Observe how the subject, in profile, directs our gaze beyond the pictorial frame, creating an asymmetrical balance. How do the blocks of color strike you, given the time this print was made? Editor: They're muted but intentional. I wouldn’t call it realistic; it’s more focused on evoking a feeling, something almost…nostalgic? Curator: Precisely. Notice how the texture, which is likely due to the printing process itself, gives the impression of movement, almost an echo of the pitcher's motion. The materiality of the card contributes significantly to its aesthetic impact, doesn't it? What function do you think it provides, aesthetically speaking? Editor: Well, I suppose it adds a certain...authenticity? A contrast to the otherwise smooth surface of mass-produced cards, maybe. It almost brings the action to life, despite being a still image. Curator: A fitting observation. We can appreciate here how the arrangement of forms and textures interacts to give a visual reading of an instance during a baseball game. The essence of the athlete's action and attitude has been captured on this card for posterity. Editor: Seeing it this way, focusing on how all these elements play off each other, really highlights what's unique about this print! Curator: Indeed, focusing on intrinsic properties provides clarity; I'm glad we have shed light on the material arrangement together.