Lot # 2621: Circa 1912-1913 Ty Cobb Original Burke & Atwell Oversized Photograph PSA/DNA Type I

Exceptional large-format photograph of Ty Cobb as a member of the Detroit Tigers, taken by Chicago photographer Francis Burke of Burke & Atwell. Certified as an original Type I photograph by PSA/DNA. The image, which dates to 1912-1913, captures Cobb sliding feet-first into third base, successfully beating the throw. While Burke has historically received less recognition than some of his more well-known contemporaries, his portfolio rivals that of any photographer of the era. Among Burke's most recognizable shots are the iconic images later used for the famed Cracker Jack cards featuring Cobb and Walter Johnson, as well as the entire 1912 Plow's Candy set and the celebrated Cobb Max Stein postcard. In his book Baseball Photography of the Deadball Era, Jim Chapman noted, "Burke's photographic talent has been one of the biggest revelations as I researched and authored this book. His are some of the most iconic images used for baseball cards and memorabilia. I have long admired his images, but only recently have I discovered on whom to bestow my esteem. He is my personal favorite photographer of baseball." The photo (9.5 x 12 inches), which bears a Burke & Atwell paper tag in the lower left, exhibits a few light creases and minor foxing on the reverse. Excellent condition overall. Full LOA from PSA/DNA.