In August 2024, I shared a 1933 Goudey Babe Ruth parody painting by George Chastain that Christie’s offered in its October 1993 Sports Memorabilia catalog. Recently, I found another Chastain baseball card parody piece, but this time, I haven’t been able to locate another public sale or much additional information about it.
The piece appeared in Christie’s East’s March 1994 Sports Memorabilia Auction and spoofed the iconic 1888 Goodwin Champions Mike “King” Kelly card.
An original painting in acrylics by George Chastain, noted parody artist spoofing the 1888 Kelly card from the Goodwin Champions series. The painting refers to ‘Old Grudge and Vented Spleen Cigarettes’ and pictures ‘Kelly’ as ‘Koala.’ The entire painting reproduces the chromolithographic color dots which are evident on the real card under magnification. One of a series of baseball card parodies by Mr. Chastain. The lot does not include publication rights—11 x 14 inches.
What really stands out is the attention to detail.
The catalog description also mentions this was “one of a series” of baseball card parody paintings by Chastain, which makes me wonder how many others were produced and where they are today.
If anyone has more information about this painting or the broader series Christie’s referenced, please reach out.
Happy collecting!
P.S. Here’s an example of an 1888 N162 Goodwin Champs King Kelly card. REA sold this one in the Spring of 2024 for $24,000.
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