This card from the Helmar “Polar Night” series presents the poised figure of pitcher Matt Kilroy
of Baltimore, standing confidently with bat in hand beneath a glowing twilight sky. The soft
gradation of color in the horizon and the intricate stippling of the background suggest both
motion and stillness—a balance between youthful ambition and veteran calm. The composition’s
crisp detailing and atmospheric palette evoke the quiet heroism that defined baseball’s early era.

Matt Kilroy was one of the most remarkable left-handers of the nineteenth century, best known
for his extraordinary 513-strikeout season in 1886, still a record in professional baseball history.
A tireless competitor, Kilroy’s career bridged the rough-and-tumble beginnings of the sport and
its evolution into organized league play. His image here recalls both the intensity and artistry
of that foundational age.

Artwork by Valiukevich-Mandel.

This Kilroy figural pose was the first piece of test art done for the series by C. Mandel. A few of the initial tests are shown on this page.