Beekman, Lawn Tennis, from the Goodwin Champion series for Old Judge and Gypsy Queen Cigarettes 1888

This small chromolithograph was produced in the United States around the turn of the century by Goodwin & Company as part of a series of collectible cards included in cigarette packs. The image depicts a tennis player named Beekman, neatly dressed in a red and white striped jacket, white trousers and a matching hat. The development of chromolithography allowed for mass production of colorful images, popularizing advertising and promotional materials. Cigarette companies like Goodwin seized this opportunity to market their products. The Goodwin Champion series, of which this card is a part, featured athletes from various sports, reflecting the growing popularity of sports and the cult of celebrity. The rise of consumer culture and advertising had a profound impact on the art world, blurring the lines between fine art and commercial design. By studying these cards, along with other archival materials like company records and advertising campaigns, we gain insight into the intersection of art, commerce, and society in turn-of-the-century America.