Elmer Ellsworth Foster, Center Field, New York, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1888

"Elmer Ellsworth Foster, Center Field, New York" is a black and white photograph from the "Old Judge" series of trading cards produced by Goodwin & Company in 1888. Featuring a portrait of baseball player Elmer Ellsworth Foster, the card captures his stance holding a bat, likely depicting his batting position. This card, like other "Old Judge" cards, was likely distributed with packages of Old Judge cigarettes, serving as a collectible promotional item. The Metropolitan Museum of Art houses this card, measuring 2 11/16 x 1 3/8 inches. This "Old Judge" card exemplifies the transition of trading cards from early 20th century, demonstrating the evolution of trading cards and their relationship with the advertising industry.