McAuliffe, from the Celebrities and Prizefighters series (N174) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1887 - 1888

Curator: This is a portrait of McAuliffe, a work belonging to the Celebrities and Prizefighters series (N174) for Old Judge Cigarettes, made sometime between 1887 and 1888. Editor: There's something striking about its simplicity; almost severe. The sepia tones, the centered figure... it feels so posed and direct, with an aura of vintage stoicism. Curator: Produced by Goodwin & Company, this piece speaks volumes about the rise of celebrity culture and commercialism. The albumen print, a photographic process popular in the late 19th century, offered detailed and reproducible images, perfect for mass-produced collectibles like these cigarette cards. Editor: I’m immediately drawn to the boxing imagery itself. Notice his stance, slightly poised, the championship belt he is wearing...it creates a whole aura around McAuliffe. Boxing had connotations of grit, struggle, but also potential glory during the Gilded Age. The cards memorialize, in essence, the public theater of masculinity. Curator: Absolutely, but look closer at the production. These cards were literally packaged with cigarettes; consumers purchased tobacco and, along with it, a collectible image of a celebrated figure. This blurred the lines between commerce, leisure, and celebrity, creating an interesting social dynamic around consumption. The materials and distribution networks were fundamental to creating McAuliffe’s wider recognition. Editor: The figure himself takes on iconic status as a sort of brand ambassador. And the card transforms the prizefighter into an almost mythic hero. McAuliffe transcends a single sport or fleeting victory, he becomes representative of certain archetypes and ideals that were prevalent. Curator: By framing athleticism within a consumable commodity, we witness the shaping of cultural values in tangible form. It shows us that art isn't just in a gallery. It permeates into daily life. Editor: These symbols helped cement a social consciousness. Even a cigarette card contributes in the narratives. It's truly more than the sum of its parts. Curator: It's a poignant example of how material conditions shape what we value and how images function in society. Editor: Indeed. I see that I focused heavily on symbolism, while you reminded me of its impact. Food for thought.