1887 Prang Baseball Lithograph w/Exhibition Photograph

Auction: Spring Classic 2022

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Baseball Memorabilia

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1887 Prang Baseball Lithograph w/Exhibition Photograph

Colorful nineteenth-centurybaseball lithograph produced by the well-known Boston lithography studio L.Prang & Co. The scene depicts a game-in-progress, with the batter runningto first after hitting the ball. Although neither the teams nor players areidentified by the artist, it has always been assumed that the player seated atthe end of the bench with his legs crossed is Cap Anson. Prang’s copyright,dated 1887, appears in the lower left corner of the lithograph. This isconsidered by many to be one of the finest baseball lithographs of thenineteenth century, both for its aesthetic appeal and high production values.Louis L. Prang was one of the premier lithographers of his time and is bestknown today as the “Father of the Christmas Card.” The offered lithograph isall the more desirable because of its wonderful companion piece: a circa 1890 cabinetphoto (10x8”) depicting an exhibition of Prang’s prints, with this baseball lithographeasily seen hanging on one of the walls.  A vintage pencil notation on the back of themount reads "L. P & C: Exposition and Mechanics Fair, Prangdisplay." The lithograph (21.5x15.5”, visible dimensions) has the notation“White Sox” written in what appears to be faded pencil along the base. Itshould be noted that only portions of the notation remain visible, and its presencedoes not detract in the least from the lithograph’s otherwise Near Mintappearance. Matted and framed to total dimensions of 29.5x23.5”. Please note: the size and/or weight of this lot will necessitate an increased shipping charge.