Hurdle Race, from the Games and Sports series (N165) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1889

This small chromolithograph card, "Hurdle Race," was printed by Goodwin & Company as part of the "Games and Sports" series around the turn of the 20th century. Notice how the composition is neatly divided, with the dynamic hurdle race on one side and a poised female portrait on the other, creating a juxtaposition between action and stillness. The soft hues and detailed rendering give the card an accessible charm, yet it also hints at deeper cultural codings. The division of the card serves as a semiotic structure. The race embodies notions of masculinity, competition, and public spectacle. The portrait introduces femininity and passive spectatorship. This highlights a complex interplay of gender roles within the social context of sport and leisure at the time. The card's structure isn't just about aesthetics; it is an encoding of social dynamics. Consider how these design elements converge to create a narrative that speaks volumes about society, perception and representation during this era.