Scarce pitch card – examples only show in two institutional libraries. Found in the estate of a 1930s circus promoter, there is no record for’Deacon James Finch’ nor do the details suggest that this is anything more than a stage name. Rather than the traditional pose w/a bible or in front of a congregation, Finch is noted only for height & weight in the negative. He is seated in a showman’s way, a precedent set by Barnum so many years before. Religion as the promoter’s gimmick to make Finch more palatable to a white audience is notable. Important Americana for that reason. Strong development & contrast on postcard photo stock w/ no back marks. Corner wear w/ink stain reverse that does not carry through.

Scarce pitch card – examples only show in two institutional libraries. Found in the estate of a 1930s circus promoter, there is no record for’Deacon James Finch’ nor do the details suggest that this is anything more than a stage name. Rather than the traditional pose w/a bible or in front of a congregation, Finch is noted only for height & weight in the negative. He is seated in a showman’s way, a precedent set by Barnum so many years before. Religion as the promoter’s gimmick to make Finch more palatable to a white audience is notable. Important Americana for that reason. Strong development & contrast on postcard photo stock w/ no back marks. Corner wear w/ink stain reverse that does not carry through.