Christy Mathewson was as charismatic and popular as any player in the early 1900’s. In a time when ballplayers were known as hard living hard drinking rogues there was “Matty”. The handsome college-educated star was the idol of millions the role model every parent wanted their children to emulate. His articulate dignified persona contrasted a fierce competitiveness on the mound that made him arguably the most dominant pitcher of his time. This is the largest vintage photograph of Mathewson ever offered (the largest example prior to the discovery of this one was in the collection of concessionaire Harry M. Stevens).

Measuring an impressive 22 x 27 inches the vintage photo is mounted on a rigid cardboard backing. While the beauty of this hand colored full-body image of Mathewson is definitive the date of the print is uncertain. The photograph was taken in 1904 and may have been printed contemporaneously; the ink inscription "The Ring" on the recto may have been added at a later date to note its ownership when displayed at the offices of Ring Magazine (founded 1922). Alternatively the print may have been made c. 1925 possibly to commemorate Mathewson's untimely death. The practice of painting photographs was common throughout the time period.

Certainly created within the first quarter of the 20th century the size and overall artistry of the piece has to earn it consideration as one of the finest photographic representations of Christy Mathewson extant.