Elmer Ellsworth "Mike" Smith, Pitcher, Cincinnati, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1887 - 1890

This small baseball card of Elmer Ellsworth "Mike" Smith, a pitcher for Cincinnati, was printed by Goodwin & Company as part of the Old Judge Cigarettes series. The monochromatic image, likely a photograph, presents a study in contrasts and spatial arrangements within a confined space. The figure of Smith dominates the composition, positioned slightly off-center, which creates a dynamic tension within the frame. His stance, with one leg forward and arm outstretched, suggests movement and action, yet he remains frozen in time. Note the details of his uniform and the word "Cincinnati" emblazoned across his chest. The background is blurred, a conscious decision to isolate the subject. The typography at the bottom provides context, grounding the image in its commercial purpose. This card transcends its function as mere advertising; it's a cultural artifact that reflects the burgeoning popularity of baseball. It offers insights into late 19th-century society and commercial strategies, capturing a moment in the evolution of both sport and media.