Spectacular studio photograph of the mercurial mystery man of the game, Mr. Rube Waddell. By Philadelphia photographer “MacIntire”, his stamp appears embedded in the verso. Spirited portrait (6x7.75") was taken at his peak of his powers as a pitcher. Dates from the era when newly crowned owner Connie Mack of the recently created Philadelphia Athletics, needed to get him back into town with Pinkerton agents! This was likely created around 1902 when he had just arrived to pitch for the A’s and they needed an image for various obvious publicity and promotional uses. Kind of like a mugshot! The Waddell written at top "Waddell” suggests it was somewhat official, as if it were fan based it would be full name, if personal photo a name would be necessary. The fact that it simply "Waddell" suggests it were for publication or even a card set! First specimen we have seen, this emanates from an early collector. Fresh to the market, this has not seen the light of day for decades .