George F. "Piano Legs" Gore, Center Field, New York, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1887 - 1890

Goodwin & Company created this photographic print of George F. "Piano Legs" Gore for Old Judge Cigarettes. The sepia tones lend a nostalgic feel, drawing us into the late 19th century. Gore's pose, leaning casually on his bat, creates a relaxed yet commanding presence. The composition divides the frame neatly: Gore's figure dominates the upper two-thirds, while the cigarette advertisement occupies the lower part. The lines of his striped shirt and the vertical bat contrast with the softer curves of his body. This interplay introduces a dynamic tension. Consider how the photographer uses light and shadow to define Gore's form, highlighting his face and upper body. This accentuation of the face draws attention to the individual within the commercial context. This image functions as both portrait and advertisement, blurring the lines between personal identity and commodity. The formal arrangement invites reflection on the emerging celebrity culture of the time, where public figures were used to sell products, creating a symbiotic relationship between fame and commerce.