Roger Connor, New York Giants/Gothams, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1887

Curator: Before us, we have an interesting photogravure dating back to 1887. It’s part of the "Old Judge" series (N172) by Goodwin & Company, specifically "Roger Connor, New York Giants/Gothams" made for Old Judge Cigarettes. Editor: The sepia tones immediately evoke a strong sense of nostalgia. There's a kind of gravity to the image; his posture is very centered within the rectangle of the print. It speaks of both strength and expectation. Curator: The composition emphasizes geometric solidity; look at how the lines of Connor's body form intersecting angles that create a solid visual framework. Notice the texture, how the etching brings a tangible presence to the photographic material. Editor: Indeed. The image speaks volumes about the values associated with sports heroes during that period. Look how the "Old Judge Cigarettes" is featured. It is as much an ad as it is an image of Connor; both were clearly associated with positive manly attributes at the time. The photograph then becomes a potent symbol of aspiration. Curator: And let’s not forget that such printed matter functioned within networks of exchange. This material circulates through various collectors. Editor: Exactly, we now interpret the photogravure through the lens of modernity. While at first glance, this artwork reveals a strong baseball player of the New York Giants in the late 19th century, deeper introspection reveals that this man and product represented archetypes within its culture. Curator: Yes, a semiotic artifact to be examined and enjoyed across history. The simplicity and the complex story told is a feat on the photographer and Roger. Editor: Perhaps the symbols present in this piece, and in Roger, will change forevermore with time. I know my perspective on this one is sure to mature in the near future.