Circa 1860s Baseball "Game-in-Progress" Original Cabinet Photograph

Rare circa 1860s cabinet photograph capturing a baseball game in progress. This an extremely early game-in-progress scene featuring all of the elements particular to baseball during its infancy. The scene includes most of the playing field, including the pitcher, who is striking the classic pitching pose from the era. The batter is standing at the plate, while the catcher is a short distance behind him. No gloves are used by any of the players, and the catcher lacks any of the protective equipment that would be standard a few decades later. Our only hint as to the location of the scene is that given by the photographer’s credit stamped on the reverse that reads “Churchill & Wilson/Photographers/Pixley/Cal.” The photo (7-7/8 x 4-1/2 inches) remains in Excellent to Mint condition with exceptional clarity and contrast. The mount (8-1/2 x 5-1/4 inches) displays a small crease on the top border and a corner bend on the lower right, as well as light staining and a pencil notation on the reverse.