Michael J. Cody, Catcher, Des Moines Prohibitionists, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1889

Curator: This evocative piece is a baseball card, entitled "Michael J. Cody, Catcher, Des Moines Prohibitionists," and is from the Old Judge series (N172), dating to 1889. Editor: There's a captivating simplicity here. The sepia tone lends a real sense of history, and that action pose—it looks frozen in time. Curator: Indeed. These cards were produced by Goodwin & Company, a cigarette manufacturer, to promote their "Old Judge" brand. The use of athletes, and specifically baseball players, provides a really fascinating view into the era. This image utilizes the medium of photography. Editor: It does say "Old Judge Cigarette Factory" on the bottom, of course. I'm more intrigued by the choice of Cody—he's standing there holding the bat and the ball almost appears to be suspended, about to be struck, right there in the moment of play, capturing athleticism as spectacle and marketing, which is complex. How does this particular image speak to the socio-political context of its time? Curator: Think about the burgeoning popularity of baseball in the late 19th century. The rise of the sport paralleled shifts in industry, immigration, and urbanisation. Baseball became almost a unifying force, a new civic religion, if you will, and that allowed it to carry connotations that speak to that social environment. Goodwin cleverly linked their product to this cultural phenomenon. But look closer at his outfit; even his uniform is a symbol! Editor: Precisely! The name, Des Moines Prohibitionists. Were these players advocates? The team name and image might be challenging social norms linked to tobacco and sport, engaging with wider discussions on health and morality. His expression could be read as contemplative too. Curator: I appreciate you highlighting the complex connotations and layers to his name and location, while still keeping within the visual culture, as it relates to identity, sport and representation. These small cards reflect large social, and cultural issues circulating through time. Editor: Exactly! What appears simple on the surface is loaded with the debates and ideologies. This photo embodies a rich and ever-evolving narrative that questions everything, from marketing tactics to sporting virtues, to shifting cultural norms!