Arlie Latham, 3rd Base, St. Louis Browns, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1889

This is Arlie Latham, 3rd Base, St. Louis Browns, a photo-lithograph card made in 1885 by Goodwin & Company for Old Judge Cigarettes. The card is made through a combination of photography and lithography. First, a photograph of Latham in action was taken, then transferred onto a lithographic stone or metal plate. This process allowed for mass production, tying the image to the burgeoning industries of both baseball and tobacco. Note that these cards weren’t intended as art, but as promotional items, a purchase incentive. The artistry lies in the clever combination of image and text, creating a desirable object that fueled consumer culture. The sepia tone gives the card a nostalgic feel, a reminder of a bygone era. Yet, it's important to remember that the value of this card lies not only in its aesthetic appeal but also in its historical context. It reflects the intersection of sports, advertising, and the rise of mass media.