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The base-ball Laocoon
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The base-ball Laocoon
The base-ball Laocoon. Illustration shows three baseball players entwined by snakes formed of baseballs labeled Base Ball Trust; each carries a Contract, one for $8000, one for $10000, and one for $12000 and also stuffed in his belt papers labeled Bonds, Stocks, and Deed Orange Farm. Date 1913 May 14. The base-ball Laocoon. Illustration shows three baseball players entwined by snakes formed of baseballs labeled Base Ball Trust; each carries a Contract, one for $8000, one for $10000, and one for $12000 and also stuffed in his belt papers labeled Bonds, Stocks, and Deed Orange Farm. Date 1913 May 14
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Media ID 7340966
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This illustration, titled "The Base-ball Laocoon," dates back to May 14, 1913, and was published in a magazine. The image is a clever reinterpretation of the classic Laocoon sculpture, replacing the mythological figures with baseball players. Instead of serpents, they are entwined by coils of baseballs, each labeled as part of the "Base Ball Trust." The players are shown clutching contracts for significant sums of money - $8000, $10000, and $12000 - and their belt pouches are filled with bonds, stocks, and a deed to an orange farm. The baseball players' expressions of anguish and struggle reflect the intense competition and financial pressures that were prevalent in the sport during this era. The use of the term "Base Ball Trust" may allude to the growing influence of organized baseball and the business side of the game. This humorous and insightful cartoon offers a glimpse into the early 20th century baseball landscape, where the love of the game was intertwined with the lure of financial success. The illustration serves as a reminder of the rich history and complexities of America's pastime.
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