Peter Jay "Pete" Sweeny, 3rd Base, Washington Nationals, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes

Art Historical Context

Step into the vibrant world of 19th-century baseball with this diminutive yet captivating albumen photograph from the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Jefferson R. Burdick Collection Titled *Peter Jay "Pete"weeny, 3rd Base, Washington Nationals*, features the poised portrait of a key player from the 1888 Washington Nationals team, captured in 1889 by Goodwin Company as part of their iconic Old Judge series (N). Measuring just 2 11/16 x 1 3/8 inches, this ephemera gem was originally tucked into Old Judge cigarette packs, sparking a collecting craze among fans. Produced during baseball's explosive rise as America's pastime, these cards were pioneering marketing tools that immortalized athletes like Sweeny in stunning detail. The albumen process—using egg white to bind light-sensitive silver salts—yielded rich tones and sharp clarity, making even tiny prints like this one remarkably lifelike. Goodwin & Company's series stands out for its comprehensive coverage of professional players, blending photography's precision with the era's tobacco-fueled promotions. Today, housed in the Met's Drawings and Prints department, this card highlights early sports culture and the artistry of ephemeral objects. It's a window to a time when heroes like Sweeny embodied grit and glory on the diamond, reminding us how everyday collectibles preserve history's pulse.

About the Artist

Goodwin & Company · 1850–1950

**Goodwin & Company (ca. 1850–1950)** Goodwin & Company, originally established as E. Goodwin and Brother before the American Civil War, emerged as a prominent New York City-based tobacco manufacturer in the mid-19th century. Operating from the bustling heart of Manhattan, the firm built its reputation on popular cigarette brands such as Gypsy Queen and, most notably, Old Judge, which became syno...