Sharsie, Manager, Philadelphia Athletics, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1887 - 1890

This is a Goodwin & Company trade card of Sharsie, Manager for the Philadelphia Athletics, likely created around the late 19th century using photographic printing methods. Notice how the sepia tone creates a sense of nostalgia, almost like a memory fading into the past. The composition centres on Sharsie, who is framed by the subtle textures of his coat and the blurred background, drawing our eye to his poised figure. The vertical format of the card emphasizes his height, lending him a dignified presence despite the card's small scale. The strategic use of light and shadow defines Sharsie’s form, particularly noticeable in the contours of his face and the folds of his clothing. This chiaroscuro effect, though modest, enriches the image with a sense of depth. The text at the bottom grounds the image in its commercial context. The card is more than a portrait; it’s a study in how form and composition converge to create a lasting visual impression.