Manning, New York, American League, from the White Border series (T206) for the American Tobacco Company 1909 - 1911

This baseball card, printed by the American Tobacco Company, features Manning of the New York American League. Consider the bat he holds; it is not merely a sporting tool, but a modern scepter. Since ancient times, the club or staff has symbolized power and authority. Think of the Minoan Snake Goddess, her arms outstretched, wielding serpentine staffs that signify her dominion over nature. Similarly, Manning grasps his bat with a controlled strength, suggesting mastery over the game and, by extension, his fate. This act of bearing a 'weapon' evokes the archaic gesture of dominance, echoing through centuries. The circulation of these cards coincided with the rise of mass media, transforming athletes into modern heroes. The image imprints itself on the collective consciousness, subtly shaping our perceptions of prowess. Just as religious icons once inspired devotion, these baseball cards elevate athletes to a semi-divine status, tapping into our deep-seated need for figures of admiration. This illustrates how symbols evolve, carrying emotional weight from ancient rituals to modern pastimes, their power continually renewed.