Colorful nineteenth-century baseball lithograph produced by the well-known Boston lithography studio L. Prang & Co. The scene depicts a game-in-progress, with the batter running to first after hitting the ball. Although neither the teams nor players are identified by the artist, it has always been assumed that the player seated at the 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 is considered by many to be one of the finest baseball lithographs of the nineteenth century, both for its aesthetic appeal and high production values. Louis L. Prang was one of the premier lithographers of his time and is best known today as the “Father of the Christmas Card.” The offered lithograph is all the more desirable because of its wonderful companion piece: a circa 1890 cabinet photo (10x8”) depicting an exhibition of Prang’s prints, with this baseball lithograph easily seen hanging on one of the walls.  A vintage pencil notation on the back of the mount reads "L. P & C: Exposition and Mechanics Fair, Prang display." The lithograph (21.5x15.5”, visible dimensions) has the notation “White Sox” written in what appears to be faded pencil along the base. It should be noted that only portions of the notation remain visible, and its presence does not detract in the least from the lithograph’s otherwise Near Mint appearance. 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.