John Ward, 2nd Base, New York, from Mayo's Cut Plug Baseball series (N300) 1895

This card featuring John Ward, 2nd Base, New York, comes from Mayo's Cut Plug Baseball series. The sepia tones and compact format immediately present a sense of history and nostalgia. The composition focuses on Ward’s bust, set against a muted background, allowing the viewer to concentrate on his confident gaze and carefully groomed moustache. The text, clearly advertising tobacco, intersects with the portrait, creating a semiotic interplay between fame, sport, and consumer culture. Notice how the typography mirrors the baseball jersey, using bold letters to underscore the commercial message and Ward's iconic status. The card's textural quality further adds a layer of meaning, indicative of its mass production. It's worth considering how such ephemera helped construct celebrity culture and reinforced the connection between athletics and commercial brands. This card isn’t just a portrait; it's a cultural artifact embodying the values and aspirations of its time.